New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick has admitted that his side will face a massive challenge covering Denver Broncos tight end Julius Thomas in the AFC championship game.

Thomas missed the clash earlier in the season with the Patriots as John Fox's side fell to defeat at Gillette Stadium, but returned to form after his injury and made several crucial catches in his Broncos' divisional-round win over the San Diego Chargers.

Belichick told reporters: "Excellent player – size, speed, he's a good vertical receiver, he gets down the field on seams and flags and over routes and wheel routes, like he caught last week and things like that. He's also good on catch-and-run plays.

"He's just a good, solid all-around tight end. He's been a big target for them in the red area with his size and his catching ability, his athleticism. He's a hard guy to match up with. He's had a very productive year. He's a good football player."

The 25-year-old caught 65 receptions for 788 yards along with 12 touchdowns.