Crossword Genius

Long playing field with no parking (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

itch

'long' is the definition.
(to long or itch for something is to desire it)

'playing field with no parking' is the wordplay.
'playing field' becomes 'pitch' (eg a football pitch).
'with no' suggests deleting specific letters.
'parking' becomes 'p' (abbreviation on road signs).
'pitch' with 'p' taken out is 'ITCH'.

(Other definitions for itch that I've seen before include "It needs to be scratched" , "following seven years in union?" , "Skin sensation; desire" , "Prickling" , "Strong desire to do something" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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