So, where does this combative nature stem from?
He had the answer for the next edition of United Review, the official matchday programme for the upcoming Everton clash.
"I was, kind of, always the smallest," he revealed. "I was more technical, like also, defending wise, I couldn't be too aggressive because, with just one push, then they would beat me.
"So, I think that, through time, it's being stronger. I think that came more and more into my style of play and I just love to win duels because I know that's maybe not the most fancy part, or the most fancy job in football, or the most appreciated job in football, but, for the team, that makes a huge difference.
"If you win a duel, [it's] instead of running back with a 30-metre sprint, if I lose my duel. Instead of that, the other one can save his energy and use this 30-metre sprint to go on the attack. And that is why I love to be aggressive in the matches."