Former Tottenham Hotspur forward Jermain Defoe has embarked on his full-time managerial career by accepting the head coach position at National League club Woking.
This move coincides with Spurs’ announcement of Igor Tudor’s departure along with his coaching staff.
Defoe was previously rumored to be returning to Tottenham’s coaching setup amid Tudor’s turbulent tenure, having earlier served as an academy coach at the club. However, he will now lead the senior team at Woking.
His only prior experience in senior management was a brief stint as part of a four-man interim team at Rangers after Steven Gerrard’s exit in 2021.
“Woking is a historic club with great potential, and I am excited to contribute to this promising project. I can’t wait to get started,” said Defoe, who scored 20 goals in 57 appearances for England, in a statement.
– Tottenham and Tudor part ways as club faces relegation struggles
– A timeline of Tudor’s 43-day tenure at Tottenham Hotspur
– Tudor among the shortest managerial reigns in Premier League history
Woking is currently positioned mid-table in England’s fifth tier, sitting nine points behind the top seven.
“Jermain’s success as a player is undeniable, but what impressed us during the selection process was his tactical perspective, his commitment to high standards, and his leadership style,” said club chairman Todd Johnson.
“We have a clear vision for the club’s future and believe Jermain is the ideal person to build on the solid foundations already established and guide us into the next phase of our journey.”
Throughout his illustrious playing career, Defoe also represented Portsmouth, Sunderland, Rangers, and West Ham, among other clubs.
“Defoe joins Woking following a notable playing career at the highest levels, complemented by his coaching experience gained during his time within the Tottenham academy and as a player-coach with Rangers under Steven Gerrard,” the club noted.