The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word EXTRA
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
E
X
T
R
A
More clues leading to the result EXTRA
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Spare/bit player" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case spare/bit player = extra.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does EXTRA mean?
EXTRA noun- Something additional, such as an item above and beyond the ordinary school curriculum, or added to the usual charge on a bill.
- An extra edition of a newspaper, which is printed outside of the normal printing cycle.
- A run scored without the ball having hit the striker's bat - a wide, bye, leg bye or no ball.
- A supernumerary or walk-on in a film or play.
- Something of an extra quality or grade.
- Beyond what is due, usual, expected, or necessary; extraneous; additional; supernumerary.
- Extraordinarily good; superior.
- Over the top; going beyond what is normal or appropriate, often in a dramatic manner.
- To an extraordinary degree.