Crossword Genius

Directions Madge set for last stage (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

endgame

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

'last stage' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'directions madge set' is the wordplay.
'directions' becomes 'en' (I've seen this in other clues).
'set' indicates an anagram (instruction to set the letters).
'madge' with letters rearranged gives 'dgame'.
'en'+'dgame'='ENDGAME'

'for' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for endgame that I've seen before include "final moves" , "drama" , "Final stage in a contest" , "Closing chess moves" , "close to board meeting" .)

I've seen this clue in The Daily Express.
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