Crossword Genius

Card held by bridge player in need of a partner? (6,5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

lonely heart

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'bridge player in need of a partner?' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'card held by' is the wordplay.
'card' becomes 'heart' (the hearts are a playing card suit).
'held' becomes 'lonely' (I can't justify this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'by' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'heart' put after 'lonely' is 'LONELY HEART'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for lonely heart that I've seen is " One seeking love".)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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