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If Jude Bellingham aims to force his way into England’s strongest team, it would be smart to do away with the unnecessary reactions. His response after noticing that he was being shown after a match of mixed performance in Tirana fell short of expectations.

"I’d rather not make more out of it but I stand by my words 'conduct is crucial' and consideration for the players who substitute on," stated Tuchel. "Decisions are made and you must accept them as a player."

Bellingham has to learn. There was no need for an outburst. Kane had recently scored to make the Three Lions 2-0 up in a dead rubber fixture, there were six minutes left and Bellingham, who had not played particularly well, received a caution for bringing down an opponent. This could scarcely be called a debatable decision. Actually it might have been reckless for the manager to keep Bellingham on the pitch considering it was possible Bellingham would rule himself out of the first match of the tournament by picking up a second yellow card.

Drawing Attention to Himself

However, the player drew all eyes toward himself. No one could overlook the player's disappointment upon understanding that he would be substituted for Morgan Rogers. He flung his arms in the air and even though he accepted the coach's hand after making his way to the touchline it was obvious that the head coach did not appreciate it.

Here lies the test for Bellingham. He applauded Marcus Rashford for delivering the cross for the captain to score the team's second, but his other actions was harmful to his cause. There was no chance complaining was going to alter the decision. Tuchel has repeatedly emphasized respecting team hierarchies and the necessity of acting professionally.

Under Scrutiny

The midfielder, left out of last month’s squad, is being watched carefully after returning to the fold in the current camp. In effect his place has been in question and his actions haven't benefited him through his behavior to coming off the pitch as the national team rounded off a ideal group stage by seeing off a tough opposition from Albania.

Tactics and Formation

This implies it's unclear on how the squad function at their best with Bellingham in the team. What we saw was inconclusive. Tuchel tried new things from Tuchel at the start. He has provided England structure and clarity in recent months, using a No 6, a box-to-box player, a playmaker and specialist wingers, but there was a different feel against Albania. Quansah was made his England debut, the midfielder made his first start for England and the role of the defender as a makeshift midfielder meant there was similar look to the Manchester club's historic treble-winning side.

Mixed Performance

His performance was inconsistent. He set up a shot for Eberechi Eze in the latter period but often looked overly eager to shine. Several rushed, misplaced passes. A pointless clash with a rival player early on. England were ragged after halftime. An opportunity for Albania resulted from Bellingham squandered possession. His caution came after he was dispossessed to Broja and fouled the former Chelsea striker.

Depth Makes the Difference

Ultimately the squad's strength was decisive. Tuchel introduced the Manchester City player, who appeared more naturally fitted to the role in which Bellingham operated earlier in the match, and Bukayo Saka. Later Saka provided a corner kick for Harry Kane to score the first goal. This served as a reminder that set pieces will be crucial in the upcoming tournament.

Connection Remains

However, all talk was about Bellingham. The quality of Rashford’s assist for Kane’s header was somewhat overlooked amid the drama of the substitution incident. When the match concluded, everyone was watching him. The coach approached from behind and directed Bellingham in the direction of the away supporters. Their connection is not broken. Tuchel hasn't decided to abandon Bellingham yet. However, whether he is willing to grant him the central position remains in doubt.