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Should Bellingham aims to force his way into England’s best starting eleven, he would be wise to cut out the dramatics. His response after noticing that the substitute board was being shown after an evening of inconsistency in the match against Albania was unacceptable.

"I’d rather not overstate it but I stick to my words 'attitude matters' and consideration for the players who substitute on," commented the coach. "Substitutions happen and you need to comply as a player."

The midfielder must understand. There was no call for a tantrum. Harry Kane had only moments earlier made it the national team 2-0 up in a meaningless qualifier, with only six minutes remaining and he, after a below-par performance, received a caution for a foul on the Albanian striker. This could scarcely be called a questionable change. Indeed it might have been reckless for the head coach to keep Bellingham on the pitch given that there was a chance Bellingham would be suspended of the first match of the World Cup by picking up a second yellow card.

Shifting Focus on Himself

However, the player drew all eyes toward himself. No one could overlook the player's disappointment when he clocked that he would be substituted for another player. He threw his arms up and while he accepted the coach's hand while heading to the bench it was clear that Tuchel was displeased.

This is the challenge that Bellingham must overcome. He applauded his teammate for sending in the ball for Kane to nod home the team's second, but his other actions was harmful to his cause. It's not like complaining was going to change Tuchel’s mind. The German has repeatedly emphasized respecting team hierarchies and the necessity of showing proper conduct.

In the Spotlight

The midfielder, omitted from the team last month, has been under scrutiny upon his return to the team in the current camp. In effect he was being assessed and his actions haven't benefited him with his response to being taken off as the side wrapped up a perfect qualifying campaign by overcoming a feisty challenge from Albania.

The Coach's Plan

This implies the jury is out on if the squad function at their best when Bellingham plays. The evidence here was inconclusive. Some new ideas were tested by the coach in the beginning. Under him, England have gained England structure and clarity in recent months, building with a holding player, a central midfielder, an attacking midfielder and out-and-out wingers, but it felt different in this match. Jarell Quansah was made his England debut, the midfielder made his first start internationally and the role of John Stones as a makeshift midfielder gave a similar look to the Manchester club's historic treble-winning side.

Inconsistent Display

His performance was inconsistent. He created an opportunity for his teammate during the second half but frequently appeared overly eager to shine. Several rushed, misplaced passes. There was a needless bit of aggro with an Albania midfielder early on. England were ragged during most of the second period. An opportunity for Albania came after Bellingham gave the ball away. His caution occurred when he lost the ball from Broja and fouled Broja.

Substitutes Decide

In the end England’s depth proved crucial. Tuchel threw on Phil Foden, who appeared more comfortable to the spot in which Bellingham operated earlier in the match, and Bukayo Saka. In time Saka whipped in a corner kick for Kane to break the deadlock. This served as a reminder that dead-ball situations are going to be vital at the World Cup.

Bridge Still Stands

Still, though, Bellingham was the story. The excellence of Rashford's cross for Kane's goal was a little lost amid the drama of the player change. When the match concluded, the focus was on him. The coach approached from behind and pushed Bellingham towards the travelling England fans. Their connection is not damaged. Tuchel hasn't decided to abandon Bellingham yet. Yet whether Tuchel is inclined to grant him centre stage remains in doubt.