Jose was obviously unhappy with his team’s performance during the CAF Champions League tie, which was settled by a moment of brilliance from the Ahli number eight.

“I was unhappy with the performance until Barakat came in. He made us play properly and was the key to reaching the group stage,” the Portuguese told FilGoal.com.

“He has the experience and ability to revamp his teammates’ performance, and I think he really saved them from my wrath after the game.”

Jose also revealed his dismay with the Reds’ performance following the 1-0 league win over Gouna last week; a match where the team missed the services of the influential Barakat.

Meanwhile, Ahli have handed 25-year-old Eastern Company striker Mohamed Khalil a one-week trial following the approval of Jose.

Ahli have been in search of a striker since January, amid the continuous injury problems of Mohamed Fadl and Francis Doe.