Crossword Genius

One who isn't placed in finals or anywhere

Ross

I believe the answer is:

alsoran

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'one who isn't placed' is the definition.
The answer is a person as well as being a singular noun. This is suggested by the definition.

'in finals or anywhere' is the wordplay.
'in' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'ALSO-RAN' is hidden in the letters of 'finals or anywhere'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for alsoran that I've seen is " failure?".)

I've seen this clue in The Daily Mail.
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