What does the cryptic crossword clue "Expert on defending old fool (7)" mean?

The definition is "Expert". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). BUFF (synonym="fool") + O (abbreviation="old") + ON (from clue) = BUFFOON; definition: "Expert" The answer is Buffoon.

Expert on defending old fool (7)

Telegraph Prize Cryptic #3109 | 1 Across | 2021-05-23 flower

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