The affectionately dubbed Tongan Thor has praised Reds coach and All Blacks legend Brad Thorn, crediting him for aiding in his step up to Super Rugby this year.
Taniela Tupou, 21, has been a shining light in an otherwise unhappy season so far for the Reds, putting him in the frame for a Wallabies call-up against Ireland in June this year.
Speaking at a Wallabies launch event, Tupou revealed Thorn's influence on his ever-developing game in 2018.
"He knows that running the ball is my thing and it comes naturally," Tupou said.
"Thorny said it straight ... 'I want you to focus on being the best tighthead prop in the world' by improving scrummaging, cleaning (out) at the ruck, big D (defence) and the one-per centers."
Tupou's form so far has put him at the front of the queue for Wallabies props heading into the international season, with the youngster contending with the likes of James Slipper, Sekope Kepu and Alan Alaalatoa.
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