Coldplay frontman Chris Martin has said he has “nothing but respect” for the Canadian rock band Nickelback.

Despite a huge global following, the band, fronted by Chad Kroeger, have struggled to consistenly establish themselves with critics.

"They take a lot of flak from people who have never done fuck all in their life,” Martin told  Absolute Radio.

He added: “I think they're great. That is my final word."

Martin also said in the interview that he felt Coldplay had become “better than we used to be”, especially as a live act.

"I think our concert is the least shit Coldplay concert at the moment that you could have possibly ever seen. Do you see what I mean?” he said.

Coldplay's European tour called in Italy last night (September 30th). You can see highlights from the concert below or full coverage by clicking here.