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For Bellingham to wants to earn his place into England’s top squad, he would be wise to do away with the dramatics. His response upon realizing that his number was being shown after a match of mixed performance in the match against Albania was unacceptable.

"I’d rather not overstate it but I hold to my words 'attitude matters' and respect for the squad members who enter the game," Tuchel said. "Choices are taken and you must accept them being a professional."

There is a lesson for Bellingham. There was no call for a tantrum. Kane had just put England two goals ahead in a meaningless qualifier, there were six minutes left and he, after a below-par performance, received a caution for a foul on Armando Broja. This was hardly a controversial substitution. Indeed it would have been foolish for the head coach to leave Bellingham on because there was a risk Bellingham would be suspended of the first match of the competition by getting a second yellow card.

Shifting Focus Upon Himself

However, the player turned the spotlight on himself. It was impossible to miss the young midfielder's disappointment upon understanding that he was going to make way for another player. His arms went up in exasperation and even though he exchanged a handshake after making his way to the bench it was obvious that the manager was not impressed.

Here lies the test that Bellingham must overcome. He praised Marcus Rashford for sending in the ball for the captain to score his second of the night, but everything else was harmful to his cause. It's not like complaining was going to alter the decision. Tuchel has repeatedly emphasized honoring the team structure and the necessity of showing proper conduct.

Under Scrutiny

Bellingham, omitted from the team last month, is being watched carefully since coming back to the team recently. Practically his place has been in question and he has not done himself any favours with his response to his substitution as the side completed a perfect qualifying campaign by defeating a feisty challenge from their opponents.

Tactics and Formation

This implies it's unclear on how England operate most effectively including Bellingham. The evidence here was not definitive. Some new ideas were tested from the manager in the beginning. He has given England a clear system over the past few matches, using a No 6, a box-to-box player, a playmaker and specialist wingers, but it felt different in this match. Jarell Quansah was handed his international debut, the midfielder started for the first time at this level and the positioning of Stones as a part-time midfielder gave a passing resemblance to City's team that won three trophies.

Mixed Performance

His performance was inconsistent. He set up a shot for his teammate in the latter period but often looked too desperate to impress. He made many hurried and errant passes. A pointless clash against an opponent early on. England's play was messy during most of the second period. One Albania chance followed Bellingham gave the ball away. His booking occurred when he was dispossessed to Broja and committed a foul on Broja.

Depth Makes the Difference

Finally the bench quality was decisive. Tuchel introduced Phil Foden, who appeared better suited to the spot that Bellingham had played during the first half, and Bukayo Saka. In time Saka whipped in a corner for Kane to score the first goal. This served as a reminder that dead-ball situations will be crucial next summer.

Bridge Still Stands

However, Bellingham was the story. The excellence of the winger's delivery for the second goal was a little lost due to the fuss of the substitution incident. When the match concluded, all eyes were on Bellingham. The coach approached behind him and directed the Real Madrid midfielder towards the English fans. The bond between them is not broken. The coach isn't ready to give up on the player just yet. Yet whether he is willing to offer him a starring role remains in doubt.