Crossword Genius

Defensible with not quite eleven fit men (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tenable

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

'defensible' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'not quite eleven fit men' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'fit' could be 'able' (similar in meaning) and 'able' is present in the answer.
The remaining letters 'ten' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't see.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'with' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tenable that I've seen before include "Able to be defended against attack or objection" , "possible to maintain" , "Late Ben (anag.)" , "Based on sound reasoning or evidence" , "Of argument, rational and defensible" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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.