"We put in an injury prevention programme last week and I have really worked the guys hard," says Alan of what is his longest spell since taking charge without a game - allowing him to implement more of his ideas at Upton Park.
"I am hoping that the boys come back from international duty fit and healthy and I also hope that the boys are going to be in better shape physically going in to the Watford game.
"I still don't think we are going to see Lomas and Brevett before mid-December but I am certainly looking to seeing those two on the training ground."
Meanwhile, the Premiership Reserve League South game at Dagenham and Redbridge, originally scheduled for Tuesday, 9th December, is now to be played on Wednesday, 10th December to avoid clashing with the first team game against Stoke City at Upton Park on 9th December.