Former England striker Jermain Defoe has left National League club Woking by mutual consent after just four months and six matches in his first senior managerial role.
The 43-year-old and the club parted ways with immediate effect earlier this week. Defoe described the experience as eye-opening and said it was impossible for him to continue.
Woking director of football Jody Brown said growing concerns had emerged in recent weeks from players, staff and other departments. Brown noted that Defoe had provided positive feedback publicly and privately but failed to deliver a requested report on squad depth and recruitment.
Brown added that Defoe did not attend a scheduled meeting or training session. He said people do not just fail to turn up and highlighted lessons around communication during Defoe's tenure.
Defoe has not publicly responded to the club's statements. Brown expressed hope that the former player succeeds in future roles.
Defoe was appointed Woking manager in March 2026 as his first head-coaching role, with the club sitting mid-table in the National League at the time.
