Vastly experienced, the Seattle-born American international keeper joined from Fulham in August 2002 on a free transfer, having previously enjoyed a loan spell during the 2001/2 promotion season.

Prior to his move to England, Marcus had starred for Colorado Rapids in 1999, with Paul Bracewell paying £80,000 to make him his first signing as Craven Cottage boss.

He made just four appearances for the Cottagers over two seasons, and after a loan at Rochdale, Alan Pardew signed the American as cover for the injured Phil Whitehead, but he soon became first choice.

Was a major part of the Royals title triumph last season, keeping 22 clean sheets in all competitions. That form earned him a place in Bruce Arena's USA squad for the 2006 World Cup Finals.

But with six international appearances already under his belt, Marcus was unable to dislodge veteran Kasey Keller for a place in the starting line-up out in Germany.

He played well in our first Premiership season, particulaly in the second half of the campaign, and made more saves than any other top flight keeper.