They may intercede between friends and countrymen (6)

I believe the answer is:

romans

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'countrymen' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both people as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for romans that I've seen before include "Empire builders" , "Ancient Italians" , "Citizens of Italian capital" , "Inhabitants of Italy's capital" , "'Friends, . . . . . ., countrymen, lend me your ears' (Julius Caesar)" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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