Strictly requires this old couple to visit branch (8)

I believe the answer is:

footwork

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'strictly requires this' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'old couple to visit branch' is the wordplay.
'old' becomes 'o' (common abbreviation eg in OE for Old English).
'couple' becomes 'two' (I've seen this before).
'to visit' is an insertion indicator.
'branch' becomes 'fork' ('fork' can be a synonym of 'branch'**).
'o'+'two'='otwo'
'otwo' inserted within 'fork' is 'FOOTWORK'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for footwork that I've seen is " Skilful manoeuvring".)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.