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Should Bellingham hopes to force his way once again into England’s strongest squad, he would be wise to cut out the nonsense. His response upon realizing that his number was going up after a match of inconsistency in the match against Albania fell short of expectations.

"I don’t want to blow it out of proportion but I stand by my words 'conduct is crucial' and consideration for the squad members who substitute on," stated Tuchel. "Substitutions happen and you have to accept it as a player."

The midfielder must understand. There was no need for a tantrum. Kane had only moments earlier made it the national team leading by two in an inconsequential qualifier, with only six minutes remaining and Bellingham, following an inconsistent display, had just been booked for a foul on an opponent. This was hardly a debatable decision. In fact it might have been reckless for the manager to leave Bellingham on because there was a risk Bellingham would rule himself out of the first match of the tournament by getting a second caution.

Drawing Attention on Himself

However, the player made himself the center of attention. There was no disguising the player's annoyance as he realized that he would be substituted for a teammate. He threw his arms up and while he shook Tuchel’s hand on his way to the touchline there was no doubt that Tuchel was displeased.

This represents the hurdle for Bellingham. He praised his teammate for delivering the cross for the captain to nod home his second of the night, but everything else was self-defeating. It's not like protesting was going to change Tuchel’s mind. The German has repeatedly emphasized respecting team hierarchies and the value of acting professionally.

Under Scrutiny

The midfielder, omitted from the previous squad, has been under scrutiny since coming back to the squad this month. Essentially his place has been in question and he has not done himself any favours with his response to his substitution as the side wrapped up a flawless qualification run by defeating a tough opposition from Albania.

The Coach's Plan

It means opinions are divided on if the squad operate most effectively when Bellingham plays. The performance was open to interpretation. There was experimentation from the manager early on. Under him, England have gained the squad a clear system lately, using a No 6, a central midfielder, an attacking midfielder and dedicated wide players, but the approach changed in this match. Jarell Quansah was made his England debut, Wharton was in the starting lineup at this level and the use of Stones as a part-time midfielder created a faint echo to the Manchester club's 2023 treble winners.

A Game of Two Halves

Bellingham was a mixed bag. He created an opportunity for Eze in the latter period but often looked overly eager to shine. Several hurried and errant passes. An unnecessary confrontation with a rival player in the early stages. The team looked disjointed after halftime. A scoring chance for the opponents came after he lost the ball cheaply. His caution was shown after he lost the ball from Broja and fouled the attacker.

Depth Makes the Difference

Ultimately the squad's strength made the difference. Tuchel threw on Foden, who looked more naturally fitted to the spot that Bellingham had played in the opening period, and Saka. Eventually Saka whipped in a set-piece for Harry Kane to score the first goal. It was a reminder that corners and free-kicks will be crucial in the upcoming tournament.

Bridge Still Stands

Still, though, all talk was about Bellingham. The brilliance of the winger's delivery for the second goal was a little lost amid the drama of the player change. After the final whistle, the focus was on him. Tuchel walked up to his side and pushed Bellingham to acknowledge the away supporters. Their relationship is not damaged. Tuchel hasn't decided to give up on Bellingham yet. But if the coach is prepared to grant him centre stage remains in doubt.