The Kenyan international joined Sundowns four years ago as a free agent, a signing that took many by surprise considering Onyango had not played football for more than a year after getting injured while at Maritzburg United.

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But the 29-year-old ended up enjoying four seasons at Chloorkop and picking up the same number of DStv Premiership titles under coach Rulani Mokwena, who recently came to Onyango’s defense following an encounter with the boo-boys.

“Some of the fans who are booing Brian Onyango for his mistakes, if you were to follow them in their own professional space, you will pick up so many mistakes," the coach said after Downs beat Sekhukhune United 2-1 at Loftus in April.

"As human beings, why are we berated when we make mistakes? I make more mistakes than Brian Onyango ever makes but he knows that I love him and I support him. He has my backing 100 percent because he also protects me all the time.”

The public broadcaster understands that with the player’s initial deal coming to an end a decision was taken not to extend his stay further – but the centre back will look back at his spell with The Brazilians as a hugely successful one.

Onyango made a total 61 appearances in all competitions across the domestic league as well as the CAF inter-clubs and was even recalled to the national team last year after a lengthy absence on the international stage.

However, during the season that has just ended Onyango was a bit part player with a mere nine matches to his name and three of those coming in the DStv Premiership.

Sundowns are expected to make a formal announcement when Onyango’s contract officially lapses at the end of the month.

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