"I backed him at 16-1 to be the first division top scorer this year; it is early days for him.
"I had an inkling that Alan would change him from the right side of midfield to up front and he will score goals.
"He is being pressed all the time for a spot but he will get the goals," says Tony.
Assessing the campaign so far, he adds:
"It has been a mixed bag but the game against Wigan was pretty disappointing and I think it has shown Alan has got to go into the transfer market to get another defender.
"We had problems against Forster and Kitson for Reading and Ellington and Roberts at the weekend.
"Although they are two of the best partnerships in the division we need to do better - and Alan is looking.
"When there are two on two situations it is a problem.
"Alan has got the versatile Hayden Mullins who could go into the centre back spot and add a bit more pace, but that is nothing against Tomas, Christian, or Andy.
"But when you look at a side that are favourites to go up you can't afford to be giving goals away as we have.
"Alan has acknowledged the fans weren't happy on Sunday and said there is a big expectation at West Ham - and so there should be.
"It is one of the biggest clubs in the division, and we have one of the highest gates, Leeds apart, in the division.
"It is a good chance to put things right on Saturday against Crewe, who are a good footballing side but not the strongest.
"Maybe we can go up there and grind a three pointer out."