The Moroccan fullback has worked his way back into the first team after an injury-plagued start to the season.
He told United Review: "I was kind of always the smallest.
"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, 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."