Wingman in squad to punt (8)

I believe the answer is:

sidekick

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

'wingman' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'squad to punt' is the wordplay.
'squad' becomes 'side'.
'to punt' becomes 'kick' (I've seen this in another clue).
'side'+'kick'='SIDEKICK'

'in' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sidekick that I've seen before include "Acolyte" , "Assistant to a more dominant person (informal)" , "mate" , "Close companion" , "Fellow adventurer - partner or deputy" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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