Following his release by Ipswich Town, Gerken re-signed for his first club Colchester United on 13 July 2019 on a free transfer. He made his return debut on 3 August in their 1–1 League Two draw with Port Vale.
After being released by Ipswich Town, Gerken rejoined his former club, Colchester United, on a free transfer on July 13, 2019. He made his comeback appearance for the team on August 3rd in their 1-1 League Two draw against Port Vale.