A number of former West Ham United stars have transitioned into management.
Names like Frank Lampard, Scott Parker, Harry Redknapp, and Slaven Bilić have all taken up managerial roles after player for the Hammers—some even returning to coach the club themselves.
For all the latest West Ham transfer news, confirmed signings and rumours, visit our dedicated transfer centre here.
Now, another ex-claret and blue has joined the coaching ranks, taking his first permanent head coach role.
Defoe Appointed Woking Manager
Jermaine Defoe. (Visionhaus/Getty Images)
Jermain Defoe. (Visionhaus/Getty Images)
National League side Woking have named former Tottenham and England striker Jermain Defoe as their new head coach.
The 43-year-old’s appointment marks his first permanent managerial role after previously serving on Rangers’ interim coaching staff in 2021 and working within the Tottenham academy system.
Woking parted ways with former Wimbledon midfielder Neal Ardley earlier this month, with Craig Ross stepping in as interim head coach.
Ross oversaw four wins, three draws, and one defeat in eight games and will remain in charge for Tuesday’s clash against Altrincham, before Defoe officially takes the reins.
Woking currently sit 11th in the National League table.
Defoe a Premier League Icon
Defoe retired from professional football in 2022 after a 23-year career that began in the Charlton and West Ham academies before taking him to Tottenham (twice), Portsmouth, Bournemouth, Toronto FC, and Rangers.
During his time at West Ham, he scored 41 goals in 105 appearances.
Across his career, he netted 305 goals in 763 senior club matches and scored 20 times in 57 appearances for England, including at the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012.
Commenting on his new role, Defoe 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.”
With this first permanent role, Defoe could be setting himself on a pathway to future managerial opportunities at higher levels—including a potential return to the London Stadium someday.