JOHN Brain has tipped Tevita Taumoepeau to become "one of the dominant tight-heads in the league" after the prop signed a new two-year deal with Worcester.

The Tonga international has been one of the Warriors most consistent Premiership performers this season and has made the number three jersey his own following the loss of injury victim Chris Horsman.

Director of rugby Brain is delighted to secure Taumoepeau's services until the summer of 2008.

"Not many people knew about him and his quality before he came to Worcester," said Brian. "But he was someone who I have known about for a couple of years and I was always convinced he could do a job at this level.

"He's proved himself and has got the ability to go on and become one of the top tight-heads."

Warriors fans can now look forward to the prospect of Horsman and Taumoepeau battling it out for a starting place next season and Brain believes the extra competition will bring the best out of the former Northampton player.

The 31-year-old is looking forward to the challenge. He said: "I am pleased to commit myself to Worcester. It's a great club to be associated with and I am really enjoying my rugby."

The news comes as a massive boost ahead of tomorrow's Sixways clash with London Irish (2pm).

They go into the match without number eight Drew Hickey, still hampered by the effects of the concussion he suffered against Saracens. He also has a wrist problem but Brain hopes to have him back for next week's visit to Gloucester.

Centre Dale Rasmussen and wing Mark Tucker will both have fitness tests today. Rasmussen is nursing a shoulder complaint, while Tucker has a hernia problem.

The cause of the latter's injury is still something of a mystery to Brain. "Originally, it was diagnosed as a back issue," he said. "He has since developed a hernia. Players can play quite easily with hernias but we are getting the extent of the injury sorted out."

Kai Horstmann will deputise for Hickey despite a rib injury, but Brain says there is still a "slight doubt" over Aisea Havili, who hurt his shoulder at Northampton.