Woking have appointed Craig Ross and Jake Hyde as interim managers following the departure of Jermain Defoe. The National League side confirmed the duo will oversee first-team operations until the start of the new season, which begins with a home match against Sutton United on 8 August. Woking finished 10th in the National League last season with 63 points from 46 games, including a 0-1 loss to FC Halifax Town in their final match of the 2025 campaign.
Who are the interim managers?
Craig Ross, the player/goalkeeping coach, and Jake Hyde, who retired as a player at the end of last season, will take charge for the second time this year. They previously led the team to four wins in five matches after Neal Ardley's sacking in March, with their only defeat coming against eventual champions York City. The pair have been with the club for several years and are familiar with the squad's dynamics.
Why did Defoe leave?
Woking and former England international Jermain Defoe mutually agreed to part ways with immediate effect. The decision comes just two weeks before the start of the new season, leaving the club in need of interim leadership. Defoe's exit follows a season where Woking scored 69 goals and conceded 54, finishing 45 points behind league leaders York.
What comes next for Woking?
Director of football Jody Brown expressed confidence in Ross and Hyde's ability to provide leadership and continuity. The duo will focus on preparing the team for the upcoming season, with their first match against Sutton United on 8 August. The club will likely begin a search for a permanent manager in the coming weeks, but for now, Ross and Hyde will aim to build on their previous success with the team.
