(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Chris Brown has confirmed his split from Karrueche Tran, citing his "friendship with Rihanna" as one of the reasons.

Chris and Rihanna have set tongues wagging this week, after they were spotted kissing and cuddling in a New York City nightclub. They also went on a date to see Jay-Z perform, with Chris seen leaving Rihanna's hotel the morning of the concert.

Yesterday, sources claimed Chris and his girlfriend Karrueche had parted ways and he has now confirmed the news.

"I have decided to be single to focus on my career. I love Karrueche very much but I don't want to see her hurt over my friendship with Rihanna," he said in a statement.

"I'd rather be single allowing us to both be happy in our lives."

Chris and Rihanna split in 2009 after he assaulted her. There has been intense speculation they were planning to reunite this year, after they recorded songs together and holidayed in the same area of France.

Rihanna was also seen kissing Chris on the lips after she picked up a prize at the recent MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs). (C) Cover Media