Tyler Adams has known fellow U.S. national team players Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie and Gio Reyna for many years, but when the moment calls for it, he’s not afraid to share a harsh word.

Adams joined the Sports Seriously Soccer Podcast this week and was asked about his leadership style in a team that has had its core group intact for many years.

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“Anyone that knows me knows I’ve always been a leader. I try to hold people accountable, to the highest standard, because I want to do whatever it takes to win,” Adams said. “Winning doesn’t mean you’re always best friends with every single person on the team — while you’re playing, at least.

“I think that’s the most important thing. The things that are said and the way that we hold each other accountable is because we want the best for each other and want to achieve the most, which is, ultimately, winning.”

You can watch the full episode of “Sports Seriously Soccer Podcast” below or on USA TODAY Sports’ YouTube page and wherever you listen to podcasts (search: Sports Seriously).

Winning is the ultimate motivation for the 27-year-old, and when he’s been fit he’s been doing a lot of it, helping Bournemouth fight for a Champions League place with a best-ever Premier League campaign and pushing the U.S. forward.

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But he’s also struggled with staying fit and watched the United States’ March defeats from abroad, wishing he could help the team but focused on returning to top form.

“Anyone that knows me knows I’m a competitor at the highest level, and I just want to win no matter what. When you can’t be there to support your teammates, and it’s not the best of times and the best performances, I always find that extremely difficult,” he told USA TODAY Sports this month.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tyler Adams says he holds USMNT teammates to highest standard