Crossword Genius

Fellow takes Frenchman to be Victor (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

champ

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

'fellow takes frenchman' is the wordplay.
'fellow' becomes 'chap' (both can mean a man).
'takes' indicates putting letters inside.
'frenchman' becomes 'm' (abbreviation for Monsieur - like 'Mr').
'chap' going around 'm' is 'CHAMP'.

'to' is the link.

(Other definitions for champ that I've seen before include "boxer who is top dog?" , "Bite - victor (abbr)" , "use teeth?" , "first place" , "Munch (at the bit?)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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