Crossword Genius

Someone very good before Haaland? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sterling

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'someone' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't see how they can define each other.

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sterling that I've seen before include "Of solid worth, like British money" , "British coinage" , "Of the highest qualiy" , "first-class quality" , "Genuine - money" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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