Jermain Defoe quits Woking after four months citing 'impossible' circumstances

Jermain Defoe has walked away from his first managerial job after just four months, describing circumstances that made it 'impossible to continue' at National League side Woking. The former England striker, 43, was appointed in March as Neal Ardley's replacement and led the club to a 10th-placed finish, winning two of his six league games. But on Thursday, Woking confirmed the 'mutual agreement' to part ways with immediate effect, two weeks before the new season begins against Sutton United. Defoe, who scored 305 goals in 763 senior appearances for West Ham, Tottenham, Portsmouth and Sunderland, said in an Instagram statement: 'Unfortunately, circumstances have ultimately made it impossible for me to continue in the position. I am extremely proud of the work undertaken during my time at the club and genuinely felt that we were building something special.' He thanked owner Todd Johnson but made no mention of director of football Jody Brown, a notable omission that may hint at the reasons behind his departure. Defoe praised his backroom staff Paul Bracewell and Karl Halabi, and said the experience was 'eye-opening' and will make him 'stronger for the next challenge'. The news comes as a surprise given that just days ago Defoe expressed excitement for the new campaign. He took charge of nine matches in total, including pre-season friendlies, the last of which was a 1-0 defeat by Braintree Town on Tuesday. Defoe, who earned 57 caps and scored 20 goals for England, previously worked as part of an interim coaching staff at Rangers and spent two years in Tottenham's academy before leaving in 2024 to pursue a full-time managerial role. Fans had been buoyed by his arrival, with many players joining Woking because of his presence. Now, with the season looming, the club must find a new head coach.