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For Bellingham to aims to force his way once again into the English top starting eleven, it would be smart to cut out the dramatics. His response when he saw that he was about to come up following a night of uneven play in Tirana fell short of expectations.

"I prefer not to blow it out of proportion but I stick to my words 'attitude matters' and respect for the players who enter the game," commented the coach. "Decisions are made and you have to accept it when you're on the field."

The midfielder must understand. There was no call for a strop. Kane had recently scored to make the Three Lions two goals ahead in a meaningless fixture, there were six minutes left and the player, after a below-par performance, received a caution for a foul on the Albanian striker. It was not a questionable change. In fact it would have been unwise for the manager to keep Bellingham on the pitch considering it was possible he would make himself ineligible of the opening game of the competition by picking up a another booking.

Drawing Attention Upon Himself

However, the player made himself the center of attention. There was no disguising the 22-year-old’s frustration as he realized that his replacement was ready for another player. He threw his arms up and while he shook Tuchel’s hand after making his way to the touchline it was obvious that Tuchel was displeased.

This represents the hurdle for Bellingham. He applauded Rashford for delivering the cross for Kane to head in his second goal, but the rest was harmful to his cause. It's not like arguing was going to alter the decision. The German has stressed repeatedly honoring the team structure and the value of showing proper conduct.

Under Scrutiny

The midfielder, omitted from last month’s squad, is being watched carefully since coming back to the squad recently. In effect his place has been in question and his actions haven't benefited him with his response to coming off the pitch as the side wrapped up a flawless qualification run by overcoming a feisty challenge from the Albanian team.

Tactics and Formation

It means it's unclear on if England function at their best when Bellingham plays. What we saw was inconclusive. Tuchel tried new things from Tuchel at the start. He has provided England structure and clarity lately, using a defensive midfielder, a No 8, an attacking midfielder and out-and-out wingers, but there was a different feel versus Albania. Quansah was given his first cap, the midfielder started for the first time for England and the use of the defender as a part-time midfielder meant there was similar look to Manchester City’s team that won three trophies.

A Game of Two Halves

His performance was inconsistent. He created an opportunity for Eze during the second half but at times seemed too desperate to impress. He made many poorly executed passes. There was a needless bit of aggro with a rival player at the beginning. England were ragged during most of the second period. An opportunity for Albania resulted from Bellingham gave the ball away. His caution was shown after he was dispossessed to Broja and fouled the attacker.

Substitutes Decide

In the end England’s depth proved crucial. Tuchel introduced Foden, who appeared better suited to the spot that Bellingham had played in the opening period, and Bukayo Saka. In time Saka provided a corner for Kane to open the scoring. This served as a reminder that dead-ball situations will play a key role at the World Cup.

Relationship Not Broken

Nevertheless, Bellingham was the story. The brilliance of Rashford’s assist for the second goal was a little lost in the ridiculousness of the player change. At the end, all eyes were on the midfielder. Tuchel walked up from behind and directed Bellingham towards the English fans. Their connection is not damaged. The coach isn't ready to give up on Bellingham yet. Yet whether he is willing to offer him a starring role remains in doubt.