Cheerio having to lose good old statesman (5)

I believe the answer is:

solon

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

'statesman' is the definition.
(synonyms)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for solon that I've seen before include "Sage" , "Athenian statesman, one of Seven Wise Men" , "Law maker" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.