Jermain Defoe leaves Woking: Implications for Sutton Utd's season opener
Sutton Utd's upcoming National League campaign faces early disruption after Jermain Defoe's shock departure from Woking, just four months into his first managerial role. The former England striker, who was set to lead Woking against Sutton Utd in their season opener on August 8, has left the club by mutual agreement, leaving the Cards searching for a new manager.
What happened at Woking?
Woking announced Defoe's departure on Thursday, stating that both parties had agreed to part ways immediately. The 43-year-old had taken charge of two pre-season friendlies, including a match against his former club Portsmouth. Defoe's tenure saw Woking finish 10th in the National League last season, with a record of 11 wins, 14 draws, and 21 losses from 46 games, scoring 59 goals and conceding 79 for a -20 goal difference. The team ended the season 61 points behind leaders York and on a five-match losing streak.
Director of football defends recruitment policies
Woking's director of football, Jody Brown, responded to fan criticism on social media, defending the club's transfer policy. Brown claimed that Defoe led all recruitment and triallists, stating, "Of the vast number of triallists, I did not choose one. Not one. Jermain led all recruitment and all triallists. All Jermain’s contacts, all linked to him. Every single one." He also denied allegations of empty promises, asserting that the club fulfilled all of Defoe's requests.
What comes next for Woking and Sutton Utd?
With Defoe's departure, Woking must now find a new manager ahead of the National League season, which begins in less than two weeks. Meanwhile, Sutton Utd, who finished 19th last season with a similar record of 11 wins, 14 draws, and 21 losses, will face an uncertain opponent in their season opener. The U's ended the previous season on a five-match losing streak, including a 1-0 defeat to Boreham Wood on April 25, 2026.
