"He deserves the offer of a professional contract and that is a natural consequence of his elevation so quickly as a young boy," says Tony about Chris, who has played at every level for West Ham this season from the U17s onwards.
Although the U17s and U19s did not pick up any medals this year, the signs are that players are sill progressing through the ranks, and Tony adds:
"It is nice to win cups, win trophies, and win leagues, but the bottom line is that we have to constantly keep producing players for the first team squad.
"It is mission accomplished as far as that is concerned."
Chris missed out on the recent England U17 squad that played three competitive games - against Iceland, Norway, and Armenia in the UEFA U17 tournament - because he was needed for the first team squad, and Tony explains:
"Chris was kept back because we had a problem regarding left-sided players in terms of numbers for the Millwall game - and the manager felt he was a genuine need for that squad.
"He missed out on that but there will be more to come for him in terms of England recognition later on."
Mark Noble and Kyle Reid did play, however, and Tony says:
"Mark and Kyle did the club proud and both scored goals as well as assisting others in the England U17 squad that won three out of three.
"I have spoken to the youth team manager, John Peacock, since their return, and he gives nothing but glowing praise for the lads who acquitted themselves and conducted themselves in the right way."
England U16 coach John McDermott has included two West Ham players in his latest squad, and Tony adds:
"Hogan Ephraim and James Tomkins are away in France in the Montaigu tournament that England always take part in.
"Obviously they have been picked on merit for the squad and hopefully they can get games and experience - and a little bit of success.
"James has just turned 15 and to get first call-up is wonderful news."