The Real Madrid star was back in the starting XI for the Three Lions’ 2-0 win, but was replaced by Morgan Rogers in the second half as the fight for the number 10 spot intensified.
Bellingham back in England starting XI
After four consecutive games of starting Rogers, former Borussia Dortmund player Bellingham had the opportunity to shine, this time in Albania. The 22-year-old impressed in this World Cup qualifying victory, although luck was not always on his side. The midfielder was, understandably, disappointed to be substituted in the 84th minute, but he still celebrated Harry Kane’s goals with the team. However, when a journalist accused Bellingham of not “buying into the collective spirit”, Tuchel said he would look into the matter, while emphasizing the importance of team cohesion.
“It gives a bad impression. »
Asked whether Bellingham might not share England’s team spirit, he told reporters: ” It gives a bad impression. The important thing is the collective. What we did in training is above all teamwork. So I have to watch the sequence again – I was happy with the goal. I spoke briefly with Morgan Rogers and was sure everyone celebrated together. I’ll take a look at it. This is not the image we want to convey. We feel that everyone is involved and that everyone accepts the difficult decisions, whether before or during the match. »
The German added about the replacement:
“He (Bellingham) has to accept it, he has to accept it. We shouldn’t make a big deal out of it. Rogers was disappointed not to start today because he deserves to play and he wants to play all the time. We gave him a little rest because he had played a lot for club and against Serbia. I don’t want to make a big deal out of it either. I stand by what I said: behavior is everything. Decisions are made and, as a player, you have to accept them. »
