Crossword Genius

Scoundrel could lose university input (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

louse

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

'lose university input' is the wordplay.
'university' becomes 'U' (abbreviation for university).
'input' is an insertion indicator.
'lose' going around 'u' is 'LOUSE'.

'could' is the link.

(Other definitions for louse that I've seen before include "Wingless parasitic insect" , "Bloodsucking parasitic insect" , "Mean person" , "Contemptible type" , "Parasite; nasty person" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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