Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has been accused of using a homophobic insult while referring to match officials ahead of his side's Champions League draw with CSKA Moscow.

The former Chelsea coach has been targeted by the European Gay and Lesbian Sports Federation for appearing to call the referees "maricones" which translates in English as "faggots".

"Homophobia is unacceptable from anyone in football, much less from one of the game's most senior figures," EGLSF co-president Louis Englefield said. "We are deeply disappointed that Mr Mourinho is casually using homophobic terms of abuse in his workplace.

"It is especially sad that these comments have been made during the International Football v Homophobia campaign week.

"As long-standing partners of the FARE network, we call on UEFA to take action and impose appropriate sanctions."

The alleged incident was spotted on television while Mourinho was checking the pitch ahead of Real's 1-1 draw with the Russian side.