Dean Gerken

Colchester United

Gerken was born in Rochford. He started his career at Southend United as a youngster before moving to Essex rivals Colchester United. As a teenager he attracted the attention of England goalkeeping coach Ray Clemence. He made his first-team debut against Brentford in League One in 2004, as a stand-in for Simon Brown and Richard McKinney. In the 2004–05 season, replacing first-choice goalkeeper Aidan Davison, Gerken kept four clean sheets in 17 appearances. More appearances in Colchester's successful 2005–06 campaign gave Gerken another four clean sheets, including the crucial 0–0 draw at Yeovil Town that clinched Colchester's promotion to the Football League Championship. Gerken made the number one position his own as the over-achieving U's ended the 2006–07 season in tenth place. Gerken was crowned Colchester's Young Player of the Year for 2007. He signed an extended contract in July 2007, and played 40 League games during the 2007–08 season, at the end of which Colchester were relegated back to League One.

Darlington (loan)

On 15 January 2009, Gerken signed a one-month loan deal with League Two side Darlington. He went straight into the starting eleven for their next game, a 5–1 defeat of Luton Town. Gerken returned to his parent club soon after, due to Darlington going into administration.

Bristol City

On 30 June 2009, it was confirmed that Bristol City had completed the signing of Gerken for an undisclosed fee, to end his…

In August 2022, following his retirement, Gerken returned to former club Bristol City as the club's academy head of goalkeeping. In July 2023, in addition to his role with the Championship club, he joined National League South side Bath City as goalkeeping coach.

As of match played 28 September 2021

Colchester United

Football League One runner-up: 2005–06 Individual

Colchester United Young Player of the Year: 2006–07