Jermain Defoe's first managerial role has come to a sudden and unexpected end after the former England and Tottenham striker parted company with National League side Woking just four months into his tenure.
The 43-year-old, who had been leading preparations for the new campaign, has left the Surrey club with immediate effect after both parties reached what was described as a mutual agreement.
His departure comes despite encouraging results on the pitch, with Defoe overseeing six competitive matches and suffering just a single defeat during his brief spell in charge as Woking ended last season in 10th place.
However, behind the scenes, the picture appears to have been far less straightforward.
According to the Daily Mail, Defoe failed to report for Thursday's training session before later contacting the club to confirm he would be stepping down from his position.
The report also claimed there had been internal tensions involving Defoe and a member of Woking's hierarchy prior to his departure.
Woking confirmed the news in a statement released on Thursday.
"Woking Football Club can confirm that the club and First Team Manager Jermain Defoe have mutually agreed to part ways with immediate effect," they said.
"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 remains fully focused on delivering its objectives both on and off the pitch.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
- Madeleine McCann's younger brother looks ahead to representing Scotland at Commonwealth Games
- Lamine Yamal reveals Lionel Messi message after Spain beat Argentina in World Cup final
- Argentina demand World Cup final replay as petition reaches 100,000 signatures
"We would like to thank our supporters for their continued support."
Shortly afterwards, Defoe addressed supporters himself, revealing he had been left with little choice but to walk away from the role.
"Following recent discussions, I can confirm that I have mutually agreed to leave my position as manager of Woking FC," he wrote on Instagram.
"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."
The former striker also thanked club owner Todd Johnson for giving him the opportunity to begin his managerial career and admitted he was especially disappointed for the players he had been working with.
"I would like to thank Todd Johnson for giving me the opportunity to manage the club," he continued. "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."
Defoe added that, despite the abrupt ending, he was proud of the foundations laid alongside his coaching staff, Paul Bracewell and Karl Halabi, and believes the experience will ultimately benefit him.
"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," he said.
"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."
Woking face Reading and Eastbourne Borough in pre-season friendlies before locking horns with Sutton United in their opening National League match on August 8.
Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
from GB News https://ift.tt/tuYzkQI
via IFTTT
Thank you for your message!