TOBY Faletau is going to be a big hit at the World Cup, according to former Wales No 8 great Scott Quinnell.

The young Newport Gwent Dragons star is tipped by Quinnell to push Ryan Jones and Jonathan Thomas all the way for a starting spot at rugby’s showcase tournament.

And he also highly rates Faletau’s Dragons teammate Dan Lydiate, believing Wales are spoilt for choice in the back row.

Quinnell, who won 52 caps for Wales and toured with the 1997 and 2001 Lions, said: "I think Toby Faletau will be a huge success at the World Cup.

"New Zealand will suit the style of game he plays. He was immense for the Dragons last season and is a player with tremendous potential."

Quinnell thinks Faletau, named young player of the year by his fellow regional professionals this week, has all the attributes to make it.

"He has power, pace, handling skills and I like the way he deals with the mental side of things," Sky Sports pundit Quinnell said.

"He doesn’t make a fuss. He just gets on with his job.

"What has also impressed me is that he seems to play better under pressure.

"There were several big games for the Dragons last season, against the Ospreys and the Blues for instance, when he was superb.

"He understood what the matches meant to his side and he made sure he delivered. That is the hallmark of a good player.

"Whether it is him, Ryan or Jonathan Thomas playing at No 8, Wales will have quality there."

Quinnell continued: "We are fortunate with our back-row options. Dan Lydiate and Sam Warburton were outstanding on the flanks last season."

And Quinnell believes head coach Warren Gatland may be thinking of picking Ryan Jones as a second row, where he played against the Barbarians for Wales last month and where he figured seven times for the Ospreys last season.

"Ryan has been playing so well at lock for his region that he might be pushed up into that position for Wales out in New Zealand," said Quinnell.

"Warren Gatland has three big options at No 8, with Ryan, Jonathan Thomas and Toby Faletau.

"It adds up to a huge selection headache, but he will not mind that. Better to have players fighting for the jersey than no competition at all."