Backward island not lacking in skill (4)

I believe the answer is:

able

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'backward island not lacking in skill' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'backward island' is the wordplay.
'backward' is a reversal indicator.
'island' becomes 'elba' (Italian island).
'elba' reversed gives 'ABLE'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for able that I've seen before include "Bale out, being competent" , "Efficient" , "Skilled" , "- -bodied; - seaman" , "As capable as a mariner" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

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