FC Halifax Town have completed the signing of attacking midfielder Cruz Allen on a season-long loan from Championship club Derby County. The 19-year-old Welsh youth international arrives at The Shay to bolster the squad as they look to improve on their current 18th place standing in the National League, having taken three points from their first four matches.
Allen, who came through the youth system at Burton Albion before joining Derby's academy at under-10 level, has already featured for the Shaymen. He played the full 90 minutes in the club's opening National League cup fixture this week, providing an early glimpse of his talent. The move was reported by fchalifaxtown.com writer Kelly Gilchrist.
Who is Cruz Allen?
Cruz Allen is a product of Derby County's academy, a journey that began when he was just nine years old. His progression through the ranks was steady. During the 2022/23 season, as a 16-year-old, he made four appearances for the under-18s and scored twice. He became a regular for the under-18s the following season and also stepped up to make nine appearances for the under-21 squad.
His senior breakthrough came in November 2023 when he made his debut as a second-half substitute in an EFL Trophy victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers' under-21 side. That same season, he signed his first professional contract with the Rams. His league debut followed in February 2026, again from the bench, in a Championship match against Watford. His development was rewarded this summer with a new deal at Pride Park before this loan move was arranged.
What international experience does he bring?
Allen adds valuable international pedigree to the Halifax squad. He has represented Wales at every youth level from under-15 through to under-19. His most notable achievement on the international stage was featuring in the 2024 UEFA European Under-17 Championship, competing against some of the continent's best young talents. This experience in high-pressure tournament football will be an asset for a Halifax side that has conceded nine goals in its opening league games.
Where does he fit into the current squad?
The addition of an attack-minded midfielder like Allen addresses a clear need for creativity. FC Halifax Town have scored eight goals so far this campaign but find themselves with a negative goal difference and nine points adrift of early leaders Sutton United. Manager Chris Millington will be looking for Allen to provide a spark in the final third and help turn around a recent form of LWLL. You can see how the squad is shaping up on our squad page.
Allen's versatility allows him to operate in advanced midfield roles, and his immediate involvement in the cup match suggests he is ready to compete for a starting place. His arrival adds depth and competition, which is vital for a team navigating a 46-game National League season. The club will hope his energy and technical quality can help them climb the standings from their current position.
What does this loan mean for both clubs?
For Derby County, this is a strategic move to give one of their promising academy graduates regular first-team football in a competitive environment. For FC Halifax Town, it represents a low-risk opportunity to integrate a player with high potential and a strong pedigree. The loan lasts for the duration of the 2026/27 season.
If Allen can translate his youth and international form to the National League, he could become a key figure in Halifax's push up the table. His first task will be to help the team find consistency and start converting performances into points, beginning with the next match on the fixtures list. The signing shows the club's intent to be proactive in addressing the challenges of a tough start to the season.
