The defender is the subject of an acrimonious dispute between Queens Park Rangers and the Seasiders, who have complained of an illegal approach by the Londoners.

Whatever the outcome of that, it is most likely that he has played his last game for the Seasiders, though the matter is now the subject of Football League arbitration and the club are making no further comment.

Gorkss is a summer target for a host of Championship clubs attracted by the £250,000 release clause in his contract.

Striker Andy Morrell did join in training and held further talks over his future.

The out-of-contract 34-year-old has yet to accept a one-year offer from the Seasiders which would entail a pay cut.

New boys Marlon Broomes, Matthew Gilks and Alex John-Joseph joined up with their team-mates for the first time.

Defender Broomes, a free transfer from Stoke City, said he had been "itching" for pre-season to get under way.

He said: "It was nice to meet the lads finally. I have been made to feel very welcome. You can see that everyone gets on and there are no cliques.

"The gaffer eased us back into it with a bit of light ball work. Not many people like pre-season but it is part and parcel of it all.

"It's easy for a few of the younger boys but hard for me. I will get fitter and stronger as the days go by."

For John-Baptiste, it was quite a step up from Mansfield, who were relegated from the Football League last May.

The defender said: "It was a bit daunting because you want to make a good impression on your first day but they are a good bunch of lads."