Jermain Defoe, the former England forward who participated in both the 2010 World Cup and the 2012 European Championship, has stepped down as manager of National League club Woking. His departure follows a four-month spell during which he oversaw only six league matches.
Appointed as successor to Neal Ardley in March, the 43-year-old managed two victories, securing a 10th-place finish for the team last season. The club announced on Thursday that the decision to part ways was mutual, occurring just two weeks ahead of the season opener against Sutton United.
Defoe expressed his disappointment via social media, noting that unforeseen circumstances prevented him from remaining in the role. He stated that the tenure served as an educational experience that would prepare him for future career opportunities. His final match in charge was a 1-0 pre-season loss to Braintree Town.
Prior to his transition into management in 2024, Defoe enjoyed a prolific playing career, netting 305 goals across 763 senior appearances for clubs such as Tottenham, West Ham, Sunderland, and Portsmouth. He also recorded 20 goals in 57 caps for England before retiring in 2022.
