Jermain Defoe appointed Woking manager with Paul Bracewell as assistant | OneFootball

PA reports that Jermain Defoe has been appointed Woking manager.

The ex-Sunderland forward had recently been linked with a possible return to Tottenham. He said: “Woking is a historic club with huge potential, and I’m thrilled to be part of this exciting project. I can’t wait to get started.”

Defoe previously coached in Tottenham’s academy and briefly served in a caretaker capacity at Rangers in 2021 as part of a four-man coaching team.

Chairman Todd Johnson said Defoe’s playing pedigree was obvious, but it was his game insight, standards, and focus on leadership and player development that impressed during the process. He added the club has a clear plan and believes Defoe can build on firm foundations and lead the next phase.

Paul Bracewell will serve as his assistant, with interim bosses Craig Ross and Jake Hyde remaining on the staff alongside Dale Gorman. Ross and Hyde will lead Tuesday’s home match against Altrincham.

As a player, Defoe had spells with West Ham, Portsmouth and Sunderland, and scored 20 goals in 57 senior appearances for England.

Source: Sunderland Echo