"We are getting big games because we are getting in the frame for them; I said that to the players last week," he says.
"To win at places like Bradford sets it up for Norwich next week; that wouldn't be such a big game if we hadn't won at Bradford, so it is a 'feeding' process."
A win over Fulham would of course set up another big FA cup tie, and Alan adds:
"They play a system which is similar to our own and there is a danger that the game could cancel itself out.
"But they do commit bodies forward which leaves them slightly stretched at times, but then again they have people wandering in areas when you are attacking so they can break on you quickly.
"It is going to be a strange game, I think, an open game, and we will see that there are some definite strengths to their side that we need to be aware of.
"Chris is a big friend of mine and he is doing a super job there; he has certainly got a good side, top 10 in the Premiership, and you have to give them the respect that they deserve."
Alan says that as well as looking at the immediate future, he has an eye on the longer term as well, and adds:
"I have always done that since the day I walked in; I have every intention of making us a success this year and you have to make sure you are bringing in the players who can serve you in both divisions."
He says he is seeing real progress at work and adds:
"I am certainly happier with the training ground, the work I am seeing there, and the numbers.
"We are starting to look like a proper team and that should be reflected on the pitch; obviously it is at the moment but we have to keep that going."
Alan is pondering what involvement, if any, Steve Lomas and Rob Lee will be given after coming through a reserve game midweek against Coventry as part of a long rehabilitation process from injury.
"It was a good workout against a decent side; the standard was high on a really difficult pitch so the players really coped well with that," he says.
"There was a great attitude shown and some good performances."