AC Milan boss Leonardo says Jose Mourinho is courting major controversy with his comments over Inter Milan's faltering leadership.

Inter's lead at the top of the table has been shredded and this week Mourinho hinted that "suspicious" refereeing errors had been responsible.

"It's a shame that this has turned into the level of a pub argument," replied Leonardo.

"I hope that soon in Italy we can create a culture of respect and ethics similar to the one in the Champions League. Unfortunately they're like different worlds.

"Calciopoli means it will take some time, as there is still this culture of suspicion and controversy is stirred up over everything. It would be wise to all calm down a bit and look at the Champions League or World Cup as an example to follow."