R. J. Allen

High school

Allen attended St. Joseph High School in Metuchen, New Jersey, between 2004 and 2008, where he played soccer all four years.

College and amateur

Allen played four years of college soccer at Monmouth University between 2008 and 2011. While at college, Allen appeared for USL PDL side Central Jersey Spartans in 2010 and 2011.

Professional

On January 17, 2012, Allen was selected 5th overall in the 2012 MLS Supplemental Draft by Chivas USA. He didn't sign with Chivas USA, instead signed with Danish side Skive IK later, in February 2013. Allen returned to the United States and had trials with D.C United, Orlando City SC, New York Red Bulls, and the New York Cosmos ahead of the 2015 MLS season. During this time, Allen was contacted by New York City FC to train with David Villa before the beginning of the season, which he did with future Red Bull Mike Grella. He was not offered a professional contract prior to the 2015 season, taking a job as a youth soccer coach on Staten Island instead.

New York City FC

After a slow start to their inaugural season, New York City FC offered Allen a contract on May 2, 2015. Allen made his NYCFC debut the following day as a substitute in a 3–1 loss to Seattle Sounders FC. He got his first start the following week in the first Hudson River Derby against the New York Red Bulls, during which he assisted Patrick Mullins on the team's only goal in a 2–1 loss. He also made 13 starts in 14 appearances…