Veteran forward Taylor Walker says his son Hugo has found himself a new favourite AFL player. 

Unlike his youngest son Louis, who is obsessed with Collingwood star Nick Daicos, Hugo has looked to one his Dad’s teammates in emerging ruckman Lachlan McAndrew. 

Speaking to Roo, Ditts and Loz on Triple M Adelaide, Walker said Hugo’s eye was immediately drawn to the 210cm ruckman, and that he was trying to copy his exploits in his own junior footy games. 

“Hugo was looking at Lachie McAndrew the other week, just how big he was and was asking what position he plays and stuff like that,” Walker said. 

“So then he started taking a keen eye to Stretch, and when he started kicking a few goals and rolling out the skips in his run-up, Hugo started copying him and did the same in his game. 

“I mentioned to Stretch afterwards you don’t understand how much influence you have on the kids out there.” 

McAndrew will have his hands full this Saturday afternoon, when he faces eight-time All-Australian Max Gawn in a pivotal ruck battle. 

Walker said he was looking forward to seeing how his teammate fared against the competition’s best big man.

“We’re looking forward to (that contest), Stretch is going to have to do what he does, but we’re all going to have to try and help him throughout the game,” Walker said. 

“Maxy (Gawn) is one of the all time greatest rucks, he’s one of those players you don’t quite appreciate when he’s playing, but I’ve got no doubt he’ll go down as one of the greatest players of our generation.

“So we’ll have to quell his influence if we’re to come away with a win on Saturday.” 

Walker is available to return to the Crows’ lineup after serving a one-match suspension for rough conduct. 

He said a selection squeeze awaited the coaching staff, as they determined the best mix ahead of the ball.

“It’s up to Nicksy and the coaching staff now, there are a few of us that are available to play so we’ll see how it plays out,” Walker said. 

“The question is if I come back in, who comes out, do we ruck Thilthorpe or do we play four talls, that’s what they’ll be debating. 

“I think we look a little bit better when we’re smaller ahead of the ball, not meaning we can’t play the four talls, but probably not all on the field at the same time.” 

Adelaide takes on Melbourne this Saturday afternoon, with the match to start at 12.45pm (ACST). 

Get your tickets here.