Crossword Genius

Mucker seen in Spalding (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

pal

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

'mucker' is the definition.
Both the answer and definition are singular nouns.
Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

'in spalding' is the wordplay.
'in' says the answer is hidden in the clue.
'PAL' is hidden in the letters of 'spalding'.

'seen' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pal that I've seen before include "Mate, informal friend" , "Friend (colloq.)" , "Mate, buddy" , "Bud" , "Crony" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.
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