Marcus becomes U's first new summer signing (From Essex County Standard)

Marcus becomes U's first new summer signing

11:52am Friday 8th June 2012 in Sport By Simon Spurgeon

Colchester United manager John Ward has completed his first new signing of the summer after capturing Brentford's Marcus Bean.

The 27-year-old attacking midfielder has joined the U’s on a free transfer after being released by B’s boss Uwe Rossler at the end of last season and says Colchester fans can expect to see some energetic displays next year.

He told the Gazette: “I’d describe myself as an all-action midfielder who gets from box to box.

“I feel my strengths lie in making things happen in and around the box by making and scoring goals.

“I’ll always give 100 per cent and don’t leave anything out on the pitch.”

He has signed a three-year deal with the U's.

Bean has made more than 140 starts for Brentford over the last four years since signing from Blackpool in July 2008 and found the back of the net on 15 occasions for the B’s.

The former Queens Park Rangers trainee helped Brentford to the League Two title in his first year at Griffin Park and has helped them to consistent top-half finishes in their last three seasons in League One.

He made 37 appearances for Brentford last season, including twice against Colchester, and scored two goals.

The news comes hot on the heels of Colchester midfielder John-Joe O'Toole agreeing a new two-year deal with the club yesterday.

See Monday’s Gazette for a full interview with the U’s latest signing and every day for the most up-to-date news from the club.