Defoe demands more opportunities for black managers in English football

By Emmanuel Okogba

Jermain Defoe has called for greater opportunities for black managers in English football after becoming one of only five black head coaches in the top five tiers of the English game.

The former England striker, who was recently appointed head coach of National League side Woking, said he hopes his appointment will open doors for other black coaches.

“I’d like to think going forward, other black managers will get opportunities,” Defoe told Sky Sports.

He acknowledged that the lack of opportunities for black coaches has been a long-standing issue in English football.

“I think it’s something that’s been spoken about for many years. I remember as a player, obviously all the different campaigns… speaking to the likes of Les Ferdinand, Ian Wright, Andy Cole, that sort of generation before me who done their coaching badges and obviously lack of opportunity,” he added.

Defoe expressed gratitude to Woking chairman Jodie and owner Todd for giving him the chance, but stressed the need for systemic change.

“You have to appreciate that… but I’d like to think going forward other black managers now will get opportunities. And obviously players that are still playing currently, when they finish playing, hopefully in the future now they’ll get the opportunities.”

He revealed that he has had extensive conversations with former players who aspire to move into coaching and management.

Defoe, who enjoyed a glittering playing career with clubs like Tottenham Hotspur, Sunderland, Bournemouth, and Rangers, as well as earning 57 caps for England, now hopes to inspire the next generation of black coaches.

“I’ve had these long conversations with ex-players… that sort of ambition to go on and coach and manage,” he said.

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