The saga over Albion's training pitches has taken another twist.

The Seagulls returned to Falmer yesterday to prepare for tonight's clash against Stoke.

But they trained on pitches near the main University of Sussex buildings.

The condition of the pitches used by the club for the last few seasons, in front of the sports pavilion at Falmer, are still regarded as unsatisfactory by boss Micky Adams.

Albion abandoned Falmer within a few days of the players reporting back from their summer break.

Training was switched to Ardingly College at the start of July, but Albion had to leave there at the end of last week as the College has reopened to students.

Adams said after Friday's win at Wrexham that the "periphery of the club isn't right and it's getting worse by the day."

He refused to make any further comment yesterday, but chief executive Martin Perry said: "The manager knows exactly what is going on. He knows the timetable and we are keeping in touch with him to keep him fully informed.

"I am not prepared to discuss it in the press. It will not help the discussions we are having to get the issue sorted out."

The Falmer pitches are maintained by Ecovert, who are also responsible for Withdean Stadium.

Adams complained long and loud about the poor state of the Withdean pitch last season. Albion spent £130,000 on improvements during the summer and it is now in perfect condition.

Pete Johnson, foreman of the pitches at Falmer, was unavailable for comment.