Woking director of football Jody Brown says there were "growing concerns" across the club before the National League side parted ways with former England striker Jermain Defoe as manager. His exit came two weeks before Woking's opening match of the new season against Sutton United. "However, in recent weeks there had been feedback from across the club, including players, staff and other departments, regarding growing concerns." "Throughout his tenure, Jermain had never communicated any serious concerns directly to me, so I am not going to speculate on his reasons." Defoe said his stint at Woking had been "an eye-opening managerial experience and one that will undoubtedly make me stronger for the next challenge in my career".