Britney Spears' VMA opening

Britney Spears is set to open the MTV Video Music Awards this weekend.

The 'Toxic' singer - who stunned fans with her shambolic performance of 'Gimme More' at last year's ceremony - has not revealed exactly how she will be kicking off the prestigious Los Angeles event, but confirmed she has something "exciting" planned.

Britney - who is nominated for Best Female Video, Best Pop Video and Video of the Year for her promo for 'Piece of Me' - told People magazine: "MTV has long played an important role in my career. How can I not be there to kick off their 25th VMAs? I'm excited to open the entire show, to say hi to my fans and to be nominated."

Referring to Britney's varied performances at past ceremonies - including controversially kissing Madonna at the 2003 ceremony - Van Toffler, the President of MTV Networks Music, added: "Britney has done everything from perform with a snake, lock lips with Madonna and prove that what happens in Vegas doesn't always stay in Vegas. I can't wait to see what she does to kick off this year's show."

However, a source close to the production revealed Britney - who has been nominated for 16 VMAs throughout her career but has never won - will not open the show with a musical performance.

The singer's manager Larry Rudolph said last week: "Britney Spears will not be performing at the VMAs this year. I'm telling you officially and unequivocally."

The MTV Video Music Awards are taking place in Los Angeles on Sunday (07.09.08).