Injuries and adaptation kept the Dane from putting his best foot forward after a £6.9m move from Brondby last summer, but both Philippe Clement and the man himself feel he is making strides in terms of impact.

With a goal and an assist at Charlton, Kvistgaarden has recorded five goal contributions in nine Championship matches, behind only Mo Toure. That more consistent output reflects the strides he has made since a summer when he could have left Carrow Road.

After a challenging first year in England, Kvistgaarden now feels physically stronger and better prepared to embrace the fight that comes with Championship football.

“I had a tough start last season with, unfortunately, some injuries after a short summer break," Kvistgaarden told the Pink Un.

“But I’ve really worked hard and put my body in a position where now I’m glad to say that I feel stronger than I ever have.

“There is still a lot to learn in this league. It’s a strong league with some big defenders and, as you can see, I’m not the tallest guy.

“But I’m in a position now where, body-wise, I feel really happy.”

Kvistgaarden's adaptation hasn't just been about learning City's game or finding greater consistency in front of goal; it's also meant understanding what it takes to compete physically with Championship defenders week in, week out.

The Danish international impressed with a goal and assist against Charlton on Saturday. (Image: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd)

That all feeds into a sense that the Dane is relishing those physical tussles rather than simply enduring them, and his growing confidence is reflected in his increased impact in the Championship.

“Of course, it has been tough. You always hear stories before you come, but you really feel it when you get on the pitch," the Danish international said.

“But I like it. I like the fight and I like being able to be part of that fight. That’s what I was struggling with last year.

“Now I really feel like I’m in a position where I can use my body and give something back to the defenders, so we can have a good fight on the pitch.”