First, though, is the matter of maintaining the momentum at Wigan on Sunday. As long as a 4-0 defeat is avoided West Ham are through but Tony warns:
"You can't afford to think like that - you just have to go, try and win the game, and think about who you have got after that.
"It is no good trying to play for a draw and that won't happen.
"With Jason Roberts suspended that really is a plus for us because the partnership of him and Ellington has been exciting, although unpredictable.
"They are not the easiest to play with for their own team mates but they have been very effective this season, amongst the best in the first division."
As for the playoffs, he says:
"It is great to watch for the neutral, let's put it that way, but I just think that the best three teams who should go up, so whoever finishes in third place deserves it.
"But I must say since they have started they have added a bit of spice to things; teams that might have thought their season was over might have crept into the playoffs and then eventually won.
"So it is a very exciting time and I maintain that if you are going to go up and there is a guarantee that you would through the playoffs then that is the way to do it!
"I would put us favourites; I know Alan won't be pleased about me saying that but I think we are the best side in it.
"Sunderland look a tired outfit, Palace have had a good run for three months but can they sustain it?
"They were a bit nervy in their 1-0 win over Walsall and we have peaked at the right time with three wins playing very well right at the end.
"Our better players are getting fit so I think we are doing it just about right.
"The experience of Steve Lomas is important and I think you can't underestimate the return of Don Hutchison, a player who can put his foot in - which is what you need in a playoff game - and he can obviously score the odd goal as well.
"I think last season he was one of our better players in that run under Trevor and when he came on against Manchester City particularly he was the one that made us get the ball down and pass it.
"That is what you need to do - you need to play the match and not the occasion."
Tony sees the Hammers on an upward curve and adds:
"I think that comes with confidence and scoring a few goals - that is the obvious cliche, but it does get things going.
"The Watford game saw some of the best football we have played this season."
As for the debate on whether it is an advantage to play the second leg at Upton Park, he adds:
"I would like to see the second leg at home; I think it does give you a little bit of an advantage knowing what you have got to do in front of your own fans, but then again you can argue that it works against you - look at Chelsea this week.
"They thought they were there at 2-0 then all of a sudden they are out because they got anxious and didn't know how to react when things went against them.
"It is all right when things are going for you in front of your own fans but it can work both ways.
"But I have already booked my hotel for the final in Cardiff - and I'll be in the bar afterwards for a celebration!"