Accidentally cop it in the eye (5)

I believe the answer is:

optic

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'eye' is the definition.
('optic' can be a synonym of 'eye')

'accidentally cop it' is the wordplay.
'cop it' anagrams to 'OPTIC'.
However, I'm not clear how this is indicated.

'in the' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for optic that I've seen before include "Topic (anag.)" , "Describing a sensory organ" , "connected to the eye" , "Pub measure" , "Device for measuring out spirits" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.