Backstreet Boys have given their approval of One Direction's cover of their track 'I Want It That Way'.

The British boyband's recent performance of the 1999 song in Sweden caught the US stars' eyes and they took to Twitter to voice their admiration.

The band tweeted: "Heard @OneDirection did an impromtu performance of "I Want It That Way" in Sweden last night. Well done bros!"

Singer Howie D similarly said: "Heard @onedirection sang one of our Backstreet Boy songs "I Want It That Way" at a recent concert in Sweden. Thanks guys and much respect!!!"

The Backstreet Boys meanwhile have been parodied in The Wanted's video for their latest single 'Walks Like Rihanna'.

'N Sync and Take That were also given the treatment in the clip.