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For Bellingham to wants to fight his way back into England’s strongest starting eleven, he would be wise to eliminate the nonsense. His reaction after noticing that his number was being shown after an evening of uneven play in the match against Albania was not good enough.

"I don’t want to make more out of it but I hold to my words 'attitude matters' and respect towards the squad members who enter the game," stated Tuchel. "Decisions are made and you need to comply when you're on the field."

There is a lesson for Bellingham. There was no need for a tantrum. Kane had just put the national team leading by two in a meaningless qualifier, there were six minutes left and the player, who had not played particularly well, received a caution for fouling Armando Broja. It was not a debatable decision. Actually it might have been reckless for Tuchel to leave Bellingham on considering there was a risk Bellingham would rule himself out of the first match of the tournament by receiving a second yellow card.

Turning the Spotlight on Himself

But Bellingham made himself the center of attention. It was impossible to miss the young midfielder's annoyance when he clocked that he was going to make way for another player. His arms went up in exasperation and although he shook Tuchel’s hand while heading to the sideline there was no doubt that the head coach did not appreciate it.

This is the challenge that Bellingham must overcome. He praised Rashford for sending in the ball for Kane to score the team's second, but his other actions was self-defeating. It's not like protesting was going to change Tuchel’s mind. Tuchel has repeatedly emphasized following squad protocols and the importance of showing proper conduct.

Facing Examination

Bellingham, not included in the previous squad, is being watched carefully upon his return to the fold this month. Practically he has been on trial and he hasn't helped his case by reacting to his substitution as the side completed a ideal group stage by overcoming a tough opposition from Albania.

Tactics and Formation

As a result the jury is out on whether the team operate most effectively including Bellingham. The performance was inconclusive. Tuchel tried new things by the coach at the start. Under him, England have gained the team a clear system lately, using a defensive midfielder, a central midfielder, an attacking midfielder and dedicated wide players, but the approach changed versus Albania. Jarell Quansah was handed his international debut, Adam Wharton was in the starting lineup for England and the use of the defender as a part-time midfielder meant there was similar look to City's team that won three trophies.

Inconsistent Display

Bellingham had ups and downs. He created an opportunity for Eze in the latter period but at times seemed too desperate to impress. Several poorly executed passes. A pointless clash with a rival player in the early stages. England were ragged during most of the second period. An opportunity for Albania followed he lost the ball cheaply. His booking was shown after he was dispossessed by Broja and brought down the attacker.

Substitutes Decide

In the end the squad's strength made the difference. Tuchel threw on Phil Foden, who seemed more naturally fitted to the position occupied by Bellingham during the first half, and Saka. Later Saka provided a corner kick for the captain to score the first goal. It highlighted that set pieces are going to be vital at the World Cup.

Connection Remains

Nevertheless, Bellingham was the story. The brilliance of the winger's delivery for Kane’s header was somewhat overlooked in the ridiculousness of the player change. At the end, everyone was watching the midfielder. Tuchel walked up to his side and directed the Real Madrid midfielder in the direction of the English fans. Their relationship remains intact. The coach isn't ready to discard him at this stage. However, whether Tuchel is inclined to give him centre stage is still uncertain.