Classic friend of the returning wanderer (5)

I believe the answer is:

damon

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'classic friend' is the definition.
'damon' can be an answer for 'friend' (I have seen 'faithful friend' mean 'damon' so perhaps 'friend' could also mean 'damon'). I am not sure about the 'classic' bit.

'returning wanderer' is the wordplay.
'returning' says the letters should be written in reverse.
'wanderer' becomes 'nomad' (nomad is a kind of wanderer).
'nomad' written backwards gives 'DAMON'.

'of the' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for damon that I've seen before include "Pythias's friend" , "Matt --, US actor" , "faithful friend" , "Writer Runyon's first name" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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