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If Jude Bellingham aims to earn his place once again into England’s top team, it would be smart to cut out the dramatics. The way he reacted when he saw that his number was going up after a match of inconsistency in Tirana was not good enough.

"I’d rather not make more out of it but I hold to my words 'attitude matters' and respect for the teammates who come in," Tuchel said. "Decisions are made and you have to accept it being a professional."

Bellingham has to learn. It was unnecessary for an outburst. Kane had only moments earlier made it the Three Lions leading by two in a meaningless qualifier, with only six minutes remaining and the player, following an inconsistent display, was just shown a yellow for a foul on the Albanian striker. This could scarcely be called a controversial substitution. Indeed it might have been reckless for Tuchel to not substitute him because it was possible the midfielder would be suspended of the first match of the World Cup by receiving a second caution.

Shifting Focus on Himself

However, the player made himself the center of attention. It was impossible to miss the young midfielder's annoyance upon understanding that his replacement was ready for Morgan Rogers. He flung his arms in the air and even though he shook Tuchel’s hand after making his way to the touchline it was obvious that Tuchel did not appreciate it.

Here lies the test facing Bellingham. He applauded Rashford for sending in the ball for Kane to nod home his second of the night, but the rest was harmful to his cause. It is not as if complaining was going to reverse the substitution. The coach has repeatedly emphasized honoring the team structure and the necessity of acting professionally.

Under Scrutiny

Bellingham, left out of last month’s squad, has been under scrutiny upon his return to the team this month. Essentially his place has been in question and he hasn't helped his case with his response to his substitution as the side wrapped up a ideal group stage by seeing off a feisty challenge from their opponents.

Tactics and Formation

As a result it's unclear on whether England perform optimally including Bellingham. What we saw was not definitive. Some new ideas were tested from Tuchel early on. He has provided the team a clear system lately, employing a defensive midfielder, a central midfielder, a playmaker and dedicated wide players, but the approach changed versus Albania. Jarell Quansah was handed his international debut, the midfielder started for the first time for England and the use of the defender as an auxiliary midfielder gave a similar look to the Manchester club's historic treble-winning side.

A Game of Two Halves

Bellingham was a mixed bag. He created an opportunity for Eberechi Eze after the break but frequently appeared trying too hard. Several poorly executed passes. There was a needless bit of aggro with an Albania midfielder early on. England's play was messy for much of the second half. An opportunity for Albania resulted from Bellingham squandered possession. His caution came after he lost the ball by Broja and committed a foul on the attacker.

Squad Strength Shows

Ultimately the bench quality proved crucial. Tuchel introduced the Manchester City player, who looked more naturally fitted to the spot in which Bellingham operated during the first half, and Bukayo Saka. In time Saka provided a corner kick for Kane to break the deadlock. This served as a reminder that corners and free-kicks will be crucial in the upcoming tournament.

Connection Remains

However, Bellingham was the story. The brilliance of Rashford's cross for Kane's goal was somewhat overlooked in the ridiculousness of the player change. At the end, all eyes were on him. Tuchel walked up behind him and pushed the player towards the English fans. Their connection is not damaged. Tuchel hasn't decided to discard him at this stage. Yet whether the coach is prepared to grant him centre stage remains in doubt.