Despite leaving the Pharaohs after a disappointing Nations Cup, he has bounced back in the Middle East.

His superb record with Jordan led King Abdullah II to give him a personal honour.

In the West Asian Championship, Jordan won against giants Iran, overcame the experienced hosts Syria, and nearly beat Iraq in the final - losing on a golden goal after surrendering a 2-0 lead.

He is already an established household name in Egypt, after taking the side to the World Cup in 1990 and being the only man in Africa to have won the Nations Cup as a player and coach.

Difficult times

Gohary has no regrets about leaving his homeland.

"It was my decision to end my relations with the Egyptian team," he said. "I thought it was time to move on and I felt that the Jordanians were serious about their offer and keen to do something."

It is not the first time El Gohary has moved to the Middle East.

In 1997 he took charge of Oman's national team, and he has also had experience with clubs in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

The veteran coach gave his full backing to his successor, Mohsen Saleh, who is going through a turbulent time with the Egyptian team.

But he also offered some advice.

"The changes and pushing on youth players should be done in a more balanced manner, so the team's performance is not affected," he said.

Egypt suffered a humiliating defeat to Madagascar in the opening round of qualifying for the 2004 Nations Cup.

But El Gohary did show optimism about the future of the national team.

"We have a very good Olympic side and youth squad. They are the future of Egyptian football."