The Portuguese tactician was quoted as saying that Inter midfielder Sulley Muntari 'had a few problems linked to Ramadan' in Sunday's 1-1 Serie A draw with promoted Bari.

The Ghanaian international, who was fasting for the Muslim holy month, was substituted during the break.

Mourinho was then criticized by Italian Muslim leader Mohamed Nour Dachan - president of the Union of the Islamic community and organisations in Italy.

"If something happens to me it will be your responsibility," the former Chelsea boss told reporters ahead of Inter's league derby against arch-rivals AC Milan on Saturday.

"The situation with Muntari is your responsibility. I know what I said. I said ‘you can't criticize the decision of Muntari because it is a question of faith and religion’.

"That means I accept it, I never said Muntari must forget his faith. If someone in the Islamic community is annoyed with me, It is your fault."