ADELAIDE United has denied it attempted to replace a paid role at its Elizabeth Grove training ground with local volunteers, after backlash from fans.

A post on the Playford Sports Network – an arm of Playford Council – Facebook page on Wednesday night advertised a volunteer role for around four hours a week, with responsibilities including setting up training equipment, player apparel, venue preparation and other tasks as directed by club staff.

The Facebook post came just weeks after The Advertiser revealed the club had sacked its paid kit man, Chris Kelly, just prior to Christmas.

Fans on the Adelaide United supporters group Facebook page – The Red Army AUFC Official Forum – as well as on other social media platforms were unhappy with the advertisement, which was  seen as a way for the club to cut costs.

Reds football director Bruce Djite quickly denied the link between Mr Kelly’s redundancy and the volunteer advertisement though, saying a volunteer program in conjunction with the council had already been in place.

During a question and answer session on Twitter on Thursday night, he said the club had used volunteers since its inception.

“Volunteers are used for a number of functions and are greatly appreciated by all at the club,” he said.

“We are not seeking volunteers to fill a similar role. They will not even have access to the gear room.”

Adelaide United and Playford Council struck up a partnership in 2015 which resulted in Elizabeth Grove’s Ridley Reserve becoming the Reds training ground in 2017.

Playford Council chief executive Sam Green said the council posted the advertisement to support a local sporting club.

“The City of Playford, through its Playford Sports Network Facebook page, actively promotes sports and recreation opportunities and activities in our community,” he said.

“We will continue to support Adelaide United Football Club, along with other local sporting clubs, to be successful.”