Tuchel Downplays Bellingham's Substitution Fury: 'No-one Likes Being Replaced'

Image Source: Internet

England head coach Thomas Tuchel has played down Jude Bellingham's visibly frustrated reaction to being substituted in their 2-0 win over Albania on Sunday. The Real Madrid midfielder, who had been given his first start since June, was unhappy at being replaced by Morgan Rogers, who is vying for the number 10 role. Bellingham had a tough night, missing a couple of chances, picking up a yellow card, and being criticized on social media for swapping his shirt with an Albanian player at halftime. However, Tuchel remains unconcerned about the incident, saying that no player likes being substituted. "It's normal for players to be unhappy when they're taken off," Tuchel said. "But the decision stands, and we will not change it just because of a reaction." Bellingham's exclusion from the last camp had raised eyebrows, but Tuchel maintains that there are no favorites in his squad. Former England forward Ian Wright, however, sees Bellingham's reaction as a positive sign. "He's a competitive player who wants to make an impact," Wright said. "That's what you need in a team. He's brave and will continue to play his way.