The Portuguese manager has faced criticism all week after his initial claims about Rijkaard's alleged talk with Frisk were downplayed by the Dutch coach and Barcelona, who branded him pathetic and a liar.

However hours before Chelsea prepare to take on Liverpool in the English League Cup final Mourinho has revived the debate, and has effectively linked Rijkaard's talk with Frisk to the sending off of Chelsea striker Didier Drogba.

Speaking to Portuguese newspaper Record Dez, Mourinho said: "When I saw Rijkaard entering the referee's dressing room I couldn't believe it. And when Drogba was sent off I wasn't surprised."

After leading the Spaniards in the first half, Chelsea lost Drogba after the interval following a second bookable offence and the London club went on to concede two second half goals to lose 2-1.

Mourinho is now hoping that UEFA will appoint respected Italian referee Pierluigi Collina for the second leg tie at Stamford Bridge.