Barack Obama may have the nuclear launch codes at his finger tips, but visitors to the White House should know to watch out for one of his more powerful weapons, snappy witticisms.

Speaking at a ceremony to welcome Major League Soccer's LA Galaxy following their third league victory, Obama took aim at David Beckham after congratulating his team mates.

"We also have a young up-and-comer, a guy named David Beckham," he joked at the 36-year-old's expense.

"I gave David a hard time," Obama told the audience. "I said half his team mates could be his kids."

Obama, 50, added: "We're getting old David, although you're holding up better than me."

The president also congratulated the former England captain on having his best season yet in the MLS, noting he did it despite having fractured his spine half way through the season.

"He is tough, it's a rare man who can be that tough on the field and also have his own line of underwear," he added as Beckham and his team mates laughed.

Obama also poked fun at himself when highlighting the achievement of LA Galaxay and former Tottenham striker Robbie Keane.

"Robbie Keane, all time top scorer of the Irish national team," he said. "A cousin of mine."

American presidents are always keen to play up any Irish connection and Obama's great-great-great grandfather is said to have been born in Ireland.

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