Braintree's head coach Jermain Defoe has left the club after just four months in charge, citing growing concerns within the team. The former England and Tottenham striker had his contract mutually terminated on Thursday, having only begun his first managerial role in March, winning two and losing one of his six matches in charge.
What happened?
According to Woking's director of football Jody Brown, Defoe didn't turn up for a meeting and training on Saturday, amid "growing concerns" within the club. Brown believes Woking were "fully committed" to supporting Defoe and said recruitment, staffing decisions and football matters were "heavily influenced" by the 43-year-old.
Why it matters for Braintree
The club is currently 72 points behind leaders York in the National League, with a goal difference of -38. They have scored 38 goals and conceded 76 this season, with a recent form of LLLDL.
What comes next?
The club will now look to appoint a new head coach to lead them into the new season. Brown has expressed his hope that Defoe will succeed in his future endeavors, saying "success as a player does not always translate into management and leadership."
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 23rd in National League, 36 pts, 8W-12D-26L from 46 games, recent form LLLDL.
Goals this season: 38 scored, 76 conceded (-38 goal difference).
Title race: 72 points behind leaders York.
Last result: Tamworth 5-1 Braintree (2026-04-25).
Recent form (last 5): 0W-0D-5L (LLLLL, most recent first); lost the last 5.
