British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran has revealed that while he hasn't ever dated Taylor Swift, being linked to her and reading about their supposed romance in the press boosted his ego.

The pair have forged a solid friendship and following Swift's split from One Direction's Harry Styles, it was reported that they got together as a couple. Sheeran has now confirmed that they have never been anything more than friends, but enjoyed the attention he got from the rumours.

Speaking to New Zealand broadcaster TVNZ, he explained: "My mates are texting me being like 'is it true?' so I said it wasn't but the fact that people can believe it makes me feel like a bit of a stud, you know? I've got to be honest because one of my best friends did date her. I'm not that kind of guy. But the fact that people believed it impressed me a little bit."

The 'Lego House' superstar added that he did spend the night with the 'Begin Again' beauty, but they were listening to his forthcoming new album: "I did go to her hotel, I did stay there 'til four and I did leave in the same clothes. But I was playing her my new record. It was strictly that kind of thing."

Sheeran will join Swift on her 'Red' tour, which will last for 6 months, tonight for their first date in Nebraska and last night he tweeted: "Tomorrow I start the Red tour with @taylorswift13, goes on for 6 months. Can't wait to play these cities and venues."

Watch Sheeran cover Swift's 'I Knew You Were Trouble' below: