In an article which originally appeared in the Everton matchday programme, Mason Holgate fielded a range of questions in our Name Game feature.

Centre-back Holgate, a revelation this term, is the focus of a far-reaching feature interview when our programme comes back with a characteristically exclusive-filled edition for next week's Merseyside derby.

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He will reveal the significant shift in his football priorities which ultimately paid off with this season's emergence as an integral figure in Carlo Ancelotti's side – and relive the 'uncomfortable' moment Holgate's teammates reacted to news in March the defender had put his name to a new five-year Everton contract.

In the meantime, we asked 23-year-old Holgate for his views on a selection of subjects –  each one beginning with a letter from the player's name.

M is for music. What type of music do you like most and who are your favourite artists?

I could listen to any type of music but the genres I like most are hip-hop and R&B. At the moment, I listen to a lot of Drake, Chipmunk and Aitch… they are my main ones.

A is for attitude. How would you describe your mentality?

I’d say I’m very driven. I’m never satisfied with what I’ve achieved and always want to do more.

S is for studying. What type of student were you at school?

Not a great one! I didn’t enjoy it very much, to be honest, apart from PE and sports.

O is for the Olympics. What would be your strongest event?

I’ll go for the 800 metres. I’d fancy myself at that distance, even though I’ve never run it! I’m fast but I’ve also got decent endurance.

N is for noise. Who is your noisiest teammate at Everton?

I feel like I’d be up there! I’d say me or Delphy [Fabian Delph]. He’s very loud, too. It must be a Yorkshire thing!

H is for home. You’re from Doncaster, of course, how would you describe your home city?

God’s country. Simple as that! I like going back when I can. All my family still live there and I have lots of friends there, too.

O is for oysters. Have you ever tried them?

Nope. I’m the fussiest eater in the world! I’m not keen on trying new foods, so oysters wouldn’t be for me!

L is for love. Talk about someone who you love…

Anyone? Well, as we’re here at Finch Farm, I’ll say Tom [Davies]! We’ve been friends since I joined Everton. He’s a great lad.

G is for goalkeeper. You’re also good mates with Jordan Pickford – why do you think you get on so well?

I’ve known Jordan for a long time, since before he came here.

We used to car share when we went on England duty. I’d get picked up from Doncaster and he’d be coming from the north east.

Now, I see him every day. I can’t get away from him!

We live near each other and we used to drive to Finch Farm together every day when we were allowed to. In some ways we’re very similar and in others we’re quite different but we’ve always got on well.

A is for ambition. Do you set yourself goals?

I just want to play as much as I can and become as good as is possible. I’ll keep working hard to make sure I do that.

T is for tackling. How much do you enjoy the physical side of football?

I love a tackle. It’s one of my favourite things! I love the feeling of making a good challenge. It can lift the atmosphere in the stadium, too, if a couple of good tackles go in.

E is for Everton. What’s the best thing about being at Everton?

I love coming in every day to see the boys. We’ve got a good group of lads and I’ve made so many friends here. The team spirit is great.