Justin Timberlake could scoop five awards

The Cry Me A River singer is up for five prizes, with event host Christina Aguilera close behind with four nominations.

Also tied on four nominations are Detroit duo The White Stripes.

Timberlake is up for best album for his debut Justified, as well as best male, best pop, best new act and best song award for his single Cry Me A River.

The lavish ceremony taking place on 6 November is expected to get a television audience of about one billion viewers.

I can personally guarantee you that this year's show will be edgier and more powerful than ever before Brent Hansen MTV

The UK's best hope for glory is Robbie Williams who competes for three prizes - best male, best pop and best album for Escapology.

Also up for a trio of titles are rock act Evanescence, rapper 50 Cent and Sean Paul.

The awards will be held at the Ocean Terminal Arena in Leith and an entire temporary village will be built nearby to accommodate the event.

Scotland's First Minister Jack McConnell, who was at the launch of the nominations at London's Royal Festival Hall, said: "It's a great chance for us to showcase Scotland and our talent.

"I believe the 10th annual MTV Europe Music Awards are going to be the best ever - because they are in Scotland."

Beyonce Knowles will be performing

Among the acts set to play at the event are home-grown quartet Travis, Beyonce, the Flaming Lips and Kylie Minogue.

Travis front man Fran Healy said: "Scotland is the greatest country in the world and the people are among the coolest and most artistic.

"It's going to be such a great thing. They should have it every year in Scotland.

"It's so cool that we can perform on our home turf."

Brent Hansen, president of MTV Networks Europe, said: "I can personally guarantee you that this year's show will be edgier and more powerful than ever before."

However he said the glitz and glam would be toned down in favour of high quality musical performances, compared to previous years.