British player 51 ahead? (4)

I believe the answer is:

lion

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'british player' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'51 ahead?' is the wordplay.
'51' becomes 'LI' (roman numeral).
'ahead?' becomes 'on' (synonyms).
'li'+'on'='LION'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for lion that I've seen before include "Maned beast" , "Wild cat" , "Cowardly visitor in Oz" , "Buddhist scripture; Sanskrit rule" , "Animal which Judah is described as" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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