Pest removal phase (4)

I believe the answer is:

step

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

'phase' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'pest removal' is the wordplay.
'pest' anagrams to 'STEP'.
Though, I am not clear how the anagram is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for step that I've seen before include "Pace - part of a procedure" , "Second half of quick 20?" , "Football" , "Measure - pace" , "Stride" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.

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