President Barack Obama honoured the New England Patriots at the White House on Thursday, but couldn't help but joke about the 'Deflategate' controversy.

Obama paid tribute to the organisation and congratulated them on their Super Bowl win last season, while sharing jokes with coach Bill Belichick and tight end Rob Gronkowski.

The US president insisted that he usually likes to joke at these type of ceremonies, but was worried that "11 out of 12 might fall flat" as he looked round to Belichick who gave him a smile and thumbs-down signal.

Meanwhile, he added that Gronkowski had jokingly questioned what the secret service could do if he opted to take his shirt off.

Former defensive tackle Vince Wilfork and star quarterback Tom Brady were unable to attend, with the latter having family commitments.