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'Uncle Ricky': deep down inside, a father (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

cleric

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

'a father' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I don't see?

'uncle ricky deep down' is the wordplay.
'CLERIC' is hidden within the letters.
But, I am uncertain how the hidden word is indicated.

'inside' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for cleric that I've seen before include "Priest, religious leader" , "Person ordained to the Christian ministry" , "Church minister" , "Type of cloth, perhaps" , "Divine" .)

I've seen this clue in The Everyman puzzle in The Observer.
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