Defoe has officially stepped down as manager of National League side Woking after just four months and six league matches in charge. The 43-year-old former England striker was appointed in March as Neal Ardley's replacement, successfully guiding the club to a 10th-place finish last season. However, the club confirmed that both parties mutually agreed to part ways abruptly, just two weeks before the opening game of the new campaign.
Despite impressing club management with his coaching on the training field, Defoe revealed that off-the-pitch circumstances made it impossible for him to remain in his post.
Writing in a post on his personal Instagram account, the former Tottenham Hotspur star delivered his farewell message: "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.
"My time at Woking FC has been an eye-opening managerial experience and one that will undoubtedly make me stronger for the next challenge in my career."