Cruz Allen

Cruz Anthony Allen (born 25 February 2007) is a professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder for club FC Halifax Town, on loan from club Derby County. He is a Wales Under 19 international.

A youth product of Derby County, Allen made his first team debut in 2023, he signed his first professional contract in 2024. He made his league debut in 2026. He was loaned out to FC Halifax Town in August 2026.

Club career Allen started his footballing career in the Burton Albion academy, before joining the Derby County academy at under-10 level. Allen progressed through the age groups in Derby's academy, making his first appearances for the under-18s aged 16 in the 2022–23 season. In this game, he showed a good ability on the ball and came close to scoring.

After interest from Premier League clubs such as Chelsea, Manchester United and Newcastle United, Allen signed first professional contract at Derby County in March 2024, on a deal until June 2026. The 2024–25 season saw Allen become a regular in the under-21 team at Derby and he featured in two first team match day squads an unused substitute. Allen made three appearances for the Derby County first team in the 2025–26 season.

On 15 May 2026, it was announced that Allen was "in discussion about his future" at Derby County with his contract expiring in June 2026. On 24 June 2026, it was announced that Allen had signed a new two-year contract at Derby County.

On 28 August 2026, Allen joined FC Halifax Town of the National League on a month's loan. He made his debut for Halifax later that day as a 70th minute substitute in a 2–1 defeat to Altrincham.

International career Allen has been capped by Wales at under-15, 16, 17, 18 and 19 level. Allen featured in the squad for Wales under-17 in the 2024 UEFA European Under-17 Championship. He qualifies for Wales through his Welsh-born father. his abilities at taking free-kicks were also notable in his youth career.

Career statistics