Jermain Defoe appointed as Woking manager in first permanent role

Jermain Defoe has been named the new manager of National League side Woking, marking the former England and Tottenham striker’s first full-time role as a head coach. The 43-year-old steps into the position after the club parted ways with Neal Ardley earlier this month.

Defoe brings significant football experience to Kingfield Stadium, having earned acclaim during his playing days with clubs including Spurs and as an England international. On announcing his appointment, Defoe said, “Woking is a historic club with huge potential, and I’m thrilled to be part of this exciting project. I can’t wait to get started.”

Before arriving at Woking, Defoe had coaching spells with Rangers as part of an interim staff in 2021 and worked within Tottenham’s academy system. However, this is his first opportunity to lead a senior side on a permanent basis.

Woking’s search for a new boss began after they dismissed Ardley at the start of March. Since then, interim head coach Craig Ross has overseen eight games, delivering four wins, three draws, and only one defeat. Ross will remain in charge for Tuesday night’s National League fixture against Altrincham, working alongside Jake Hyde and Dale Gorman on the coaching staff. Defoe will officially take over from Friday’s home match against Eastleigh.

Woking chairman Todd Johnson explained why the club chose Defoe for the role. “Jermain’s achievements as a player speak for themselves,” Johnson said. “But what stood out to us during the process was how he sees the game, how he drives standards, and his approach to leadership and player development.” Johnson also emphasized that Woking have “a clear plan” for their future direction and believe Defoe is the right leader to build on existing foundations.

The club currently sits 11th in the National League table, nine points behind seventh-placed Southend United, who occupy the final play-off spot. A late push for promotion appears unlikely with just weeks left in the season, but there is optimism that Defoe’s arrival can spark progress for next season and beyond.

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Supporters are eager to see how Defoe’s philosophy translates from the pitch to the touchline, and he is expected to bring new energy and ideas to Kingfield Stadium. As Woking continue their campaign under interim management this week, all eyes will be on Friday when Defoe officially begins his tenure at home against Eastleigh.

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The immediate focus for Woking remains their next two fixtures: Tuesday night’s home clash with Altrincham under Ross and his team, followed by Defoe’s managerial debut against Eastleigh at Kingfield Stadium on Friday.