Unsuspected faults that weaken one's standing (4,2,4)

I believe the answer is:

feet of clay

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'standing' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are singular nouns.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?

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

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(Other definitions for feet of clay that I've seen before include "Hidden defects" , "Fatal flaw in an otherwise admirable character" , "that held boxer up?" , "Unexpected weaknesses" , "Weak point" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

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