Woking have parted ways with manager Jermain Defoe with immediate effect after fewer than four months.
The coaching position was the former England and Tottenham Hotspur forward’s first senior managerial role but it has come to an end mid-way through preseason.
During Defoe’s time at the fifth-tier club, they won two times, drew three times and lost once to finish tenth. Woking won their first July friendly against Sholing, but proceeded to lose the most recent fixture against Portsmouth.
The 43-year-old released a statement later on Thursday evening saying he was “really disappointed” and “genuinely gutted” for the players about the decision, but that it was “impossible” for him to continue.
“Following recent discussions, I can confirm that I have mutually agreed to leave my position as manager of Woking FC,” he said on his social media. “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. I would like to thank Todd Johnson for giving me the opportunity to manage the club. I am incredibly grateful to the supporters and, most importantly, the players, who I am genuinely gutted for.
“The group is a fantastic one, and I wish the squad every success for the season ahead. Really disappointed the journey has ended so soon, but I leave with great pride in what Paul Bracewell, Karl Halabi and I were building at the club.
“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.”
Defoe, 43, had previous coaching experience at his former clubs, working in the academy structure at Spurs and as a player-coach for Rangers. He had not occupied a senior coaching role, however.
“We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Jermain for his contribution during his time at Woking Football Club, and we wish him every success in the future,” the club statement said.
“The club remains fully focused on delivering its objectives both on and off the pitch. We would like to thank our supporters for their continued support.”
As a player, the England forward made 363 appearances for Tottenham over three spells, also appearing for West Ham United, Sunderland (twice) and MLS side Toronto FC. He scored 163 goals over 496 games in the Premier League before retiring in 2022.
Defoe won 57 caps for England, registering 20 goals, and was picked for the squads to go to the 2010 World Cup and the 2012 European Championship.