(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Britney Spears' ex-manager Sam Lufti claims that he was assaulted by the star's father.

Sam has sued the pop princess and her parents for defamation and breach of contract.

According to USA Today, the fired employee testified in court Wednesday that he was physically attacked by Britney's father Jamie.

In the days leading up to Britney's hospitalisation following a mental breakdown in 2007, Sam claims that Jamie lost his temper twice.

"Jamie came barging into the house. He lunged at me and chased me around the kitchen island," Sam told the jury about the first altercation at Britney's home.

"He was spitting, yelling, shouting at me, and said I had hurt his daughter and he was going to beat the hell out of me and I'd better get out of the house."

The next morning Jamie apparently returned to Britney's house to confront Sam.

This time the pair got physical.

"He cornered me in the kitchen, punched me in the solar plexus and threatened to kill me," Sam said.

"It hurt. I ran to the game room and locked myself in."

In opening statements, Britney's family lawyer stated that Jamie never assaulted Sam.

The trial continues. (C) Cover Media