Woking director of football Jody Brown stated that "growing concerns" had emerged within the club prior to its decision to part ways with former England striker Jermain Defoe as manager. The National League side and Defoe, 43, mutually agreed to end his tenure earlier this week, approximately four months and six league games after his appointment.
Defoe's departure comes two weeks before Woking's season opener against Sutton United. Brown noted that while Defoe consistently expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming season, feedback from across the club, including players and staff, indicated increasing concerns. "I can therefore appreciate the surprise and subsequent speculation surrounding his sudden departure," Brown said.
According to Brown, he requested a report from Defoe and assistant Paul Bracewell outlining squad depth, recruitment targets, and operational challenges. This report, intended to ensure necessary support was provided, was never received despite multiple requests. Brown added that a meeting involving directors, management, and the head of operations to review season preparations was scheduled, but neither Defoe nor Bracewell attended the meeting or that day's training session.
Brown mentioned that Defoe had never communicated any serious concerns directly to him during his time as manager. Defoe concluded his playing career in 2022, having scored 305 goals in 763 senior appearances for clubs including West Ham, Tottenham, and Sunderland, and 20 goals in 57 international matches for England. He had previously been part of an interim coaching staff at Rangers and worked in the Tottenham academy before leaving in 2024 to seek a full-time managerial role.
Defoe described his experience at Woking as an "eye-opening managerial experience and one that will undoubtedly make me stronger for the next challenge in my career." Brown accepted responsibility for appointing Defoe, believing he was the right person for the role, but acknowledged that success as a player does not always translate to management. "I sincerely hope to see him succeed in whichever direction he follows," Brown stated.