Ex-Tottenham and England striker Jermain Defoe lands shock non-league manager’s job

Football
30 Mar 2026 • 2:57 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Former Tottenham and England striker Jermain Defoe has been appointed as the new head coach of National League side Woking.
  • This marks Defoe's first permanent role as a club manager, following his retirement from playing in 2022.
  • He previously gained coaching experience in Tottenham's academy and as an interim coach at Rangers in 2021.
  • Woking's chairman, Todd Johnson, praised Defoe's understanding of the game, leadership, and approach to player development.
  • Defoe will take charge after interim coach Craig Ross leads the team for Tuesday’s match against Altrincham, with Paul Bracewell joining as his assistant.

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