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For Bellingham to aims to earn his place once again into England’s best squad, it would be smart to cut out the dramatics. The way he reacted after noticing that his number was going up after an evening of uneven play in the match against Albania was not good enough.

"I don’t want to blow it out of proportion but I hold to my words 'attitude matters' and respect for the squad members who substitute on," commented the coach. "Choices are taken and you have to accept it being a professional."

There is a lesson for Bellingham. There was no need for a tantrum. The captain had just put the national team 2-0 up in a dead rubber fixture, the game had six minutes to go and Bellingham, following an inconsistent display, was just shown a yellow for bringing down the Albanian striker. This was hardly a questionable change. In fact it would have been unwise for Tuchel to leave Bellingham on considering there was a chance the midfielder would be suspended of the first match of the World Cup by picking up a another booking.

Shifting Focus on Himself

But Bellingham made himself the center of attention. No one could overlook the player's annoyance as he realized that his replacement was ready for a teammate. His arms went up in exasperation and while he exchanged a handshake after making his way to the sideline it was clear that Tuchel was displeased.

This represents the hurdle facing Bellingham. He congratulated Rashford for delivering the cross for Kane to score the team's second, but his other actions was harmful to his cause. It's not like protesting was going to reverse the substitution. Tuchel has talked so much about honoring the team structure and the importance of showing proper conduct.

Facing Examination

Bellingham, not included in the previous squad, has been under scrutiny after returning to the squad this month. In effect his place has been in question and his actions haven't benefited him with his response to his substitution as England wrapped up a flawless qualification run by defeating a tough opposition from Albania.

Tactics and Formation

It means the jury is out on if England function at their best when Bellingham plays. The performance was inconclusive. Some new ideas were tested by the coach early on. He has provided England structure and clarity over the past few matches, building with a defensive midfielder, a No 8, a playmaker and out-and-out wingers, but there was a different feel against Albania. Jarell Quansah was given his first cap, Adam Wharton started for the first time at this level and the use of Stones as a part-time midfielder created a similar look to Manchester City’s team that won three trophies.

Mixed Performance

His performance was inconsistent. He created an opportunity for Eberechi Eze in the latter period but at times seemed too desperate to impress. There were a lot of poorly executed passes. An unnecessary confrontation with an Albania midfielder at the beginning. The team looked disjointed after halftime. A scoring chance for the opponents followed Bellingham squandered possession. His caution came after he lost the ball from Broja and brought down the attacker.

Depth Makes the Difference

Finally the squad's strength proved crucial. The coach brought on Phil Foden, who appeared more naturally fitted to the spot occupied by Bellingham during the first half, and the Arsenal winger. Eventually Saka provided a corner for Harry Kane to break the deadlock. This served as a reminder that corners and free-kicks are going to be vital at the World Cup.

Connection Remains

Still, though, Bellingham was the story. The excellence of the winger's delivery for Kane’s header was partly forgotten due to the fuss of the Rogers substitution. When the match concluded, everyone was watching Bellingham. Tuchel walked up behind him and directed the player to acknowledge the English fans. The bond between them is not damaged. Tuchel hasn't decided to give up on him at this stage. Yet whether he is willing to offer him the central position remains in doubt.