FORMER Colchester United goalkeeper Dean Gerken has landed a new coaching role.

The 37-year-old has rejoined his former club Bristol City, as part of their U21s coaching team.

Gerken is the Robins' new academy head of goalkeeping for players between 18 and 23 years old, according to BristolWorld.

Gerken left Colchester at the end of last season, following the expiry of his playing contract.

He enjoyed a fine career spanning two decades, making 206 appearances in total for the U's in his two spells for the club.

Gazette:

Gerken progressed through Colchester's youth ranks and made his senior debut for them back in 2004.

His final U's appearance came in their Papa John's Trophy game against West Ham United U21, last September.

Now the former Ipswich Town goalkeeper is embarking on a coaching career with Bristol City, with whom he played for between 2009 and 2013.

He was watching on yesterday, as Bristol City under-21s drew 0-0 with their Birmingham City counterparts.

Gerken will link up with Micky Bell and Matt Hewlett at the Robins, under academy director Brian Tinnion.