No phony earl, it’s true (4)

I believe the answer is:

real

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

'true' is the definition.
('real' can be a synonym of 'true')

'no phony earl' is the wordplay.
'earl' can be anagrammed to 'REAL'.
But, I am unsure how this is indicated.

'it's' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for real that I've seen before include "Lear, strangely, could actually exist" , "Actual; coin" , "Genuine, not imitation" , "In America, this estate comprises land and buildings" , "Genuine or existing" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app