Crossword Genius

Delayed so returned to one's starting position (3,4)

Ross

I think it could be either:

Which length description are you looking for?:

7

3,4

put back

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'position' is the definition.
(I know that put back is a kind of position)

'delayed so returned to one's starting' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'returned' could be 'back' (I've seen this in other clues) and 'back' is found within the answer.
The remaining letters 'put' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't see.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for put back that I've seen is " Replace".)

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