Nike, the sports goods multinational, has come under fire for using a symbol in its advertising that some people have said resembles a Star of David.

The promotional video published on Youtube shows animated footballers, including Christiano Ronaldo, Neymar and Wayne Rooney, battling against evil clones who are wearing a symbol derived from the shape of a football.

Viewers took to social media to criticise the corporation, while Shimon Ohayon, an Israeli Knesset member, accused Nike of spreading antisemitic propaganda. The Community Security Trust, which monitors antisemitism, said that Nike's use of the symbol was probably unintentional but the company should have realised its mistake.

CST communications director Mark Gardner said: "Strange as it may sound, the badge in the advert does at times resemble the Star of David. Perhaps Nike should have realised this, even if it seems accidental. It is not so surprising that some people will take exception."

In a statement, Nike said any resemblance was coincidental and unintentional. "We respect all religions and the image was in no way designed to cause any offence," it said.