As stated on some of the posts, this contract has been in negotiation for a number of months. Not just now because of Marcus's injury.
Also Playing at Southend for Fed's was a factor as it did generate a lot of interest from other clubs. So Reading wanted to Tie this up sooner rather than later.
As for another year for Marcus.....well his current contract will give him an automatic year extention if he plays in more than 30?? games. Which is not good news for him at the momemt I suppose