Clever to support clubs in lead (5)
I believe the answer is:
cable
'lead' is the definition.
(thesaurus)
'clever to support clubs' is the wordplay.
'clever' becomes 'able' (I've seen this before).
'to support' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'clubs' becomes 'c' (abbreviation used in card games such as bridge).
'able' put after 'c' is 'CABLE'.
'in' acts as a link.
(Other definitions for cable that I've seen before include "Anchor chain; type of TV" , "Liberal Democrat" , "A message transmitted" , "Telegram; thick rope" , "Satellite alternative?" .)