Crossword Genius

Sore back precludes fencing (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ulcer

'sore' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'back precludes fencing' is the wordplay.
'back' says the letters should be written backwards.
'fencing' indicates a hidden word (some letters fenced in).
'reclu' can be found hidden inside 'precludes'.
'reclu' written backwards gives 'ULCER'.

(Other definitions for ulcer that I've seen before include "Cruel (anag.)" , "Cruel sort of body sore" , "Cruel kind of body sore" , "Inflammatory internal or external lesion" , "Spot of bother" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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