The only friend dad has left? (3)

I believe the answer is:

pal

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'the only friend' is the definition.
'pal' can be an answer for 'friend' (pal can mean a friend). I am not sure about the 'the only' bit.

'dad has left?' is the wordplay.
'dad' becomes 'pa' (both can mean one's father).
'has' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'left?' becomes 'l' (common abbreviation).
'pa'+'l'='PAL'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pal that I've seen before include "Friend (colloq.)" , "China" , "Close friend" , "Bud" , "Buddy, chum" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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