Michael Jackson is angry that he has been scheduled to play 50 gigs at London's O2 Arena, according to reports.

The singer is said to have told fans in Los Angeles that he only initially wanted to perform ten shows in the UK, before taking his tour around the world.

But due to huge demand the residency was extended to 50 London dates, beginning on July 13.

Michael, who is currently rehearsing for the gigs, is quoted by The Sun newspaper as saying he was left “really angry” by promoters' decision to extend the run.

“I went to bed knowing I sold 10 dates, and woke up to the news I was booked to do 50,” Michael apparently added.

Jackson, now 50, is due to begin to perform until next February in the UK.

The singer has not performed a full concert since he was cleared of child molestation charges in 2005.

His last full tour, entitled HIStory, took place in 1996 and '97.