Dean Gerken

Dean Jeffrey Gerken (born 4 August, 1985 in Southend) is a professional football(soccer) currently playing as a goalkeeper for Colchester United F.C. in the Football League One.

Gerken started his career at Southend United F.C. as a youngster before moving to Essex rivals Colchester.

He made his debut against Brentford F.C. in Football League One in 2004, as a stand-in for Simon Brown and Richard McKinney. Gerken then bided his time before getting his next first team chance.

Following another handful of games in the 04/05 season, Gerken showed his potential with four clean sheets in 17 appearances, drawing the attentions of England goalkeeping coach Ray Clemence.

More appearances in Colchester's successful 05/06 campaign meant another four clean sheets to Dean's record including the crucial 0-0 draw at Yeovil Town F.C. that clinched Colchester's promotion to the Coca-Cola Championship.

Further improvement in his game finally ousted Davison from the number one position which Dean made his own as the over-achieving U's ended the season in 10th place in 06/07, the end of which saw Dean, deservedly, crowned Colchester's Young Player of the Year.