Crossword Genius

Republican friend in comeback (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rally

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

'republican friend' is the wordplay.
'republican' becomes 'r' (abbreviation).
'friend' becomes 'ally' (synonyms).
'r'+'ally'='RALLY'

'in' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for rally that I've seen before include "Revive - motoring contest" , "Regain health" , "Arouse for action" , "Marshal" , "Recover strength after illness" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.
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