The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word PROPONENT
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
P
R
O
P
O
N
E
N
T
More clues leading to the result PROPONENT
- Advocate of support unit not being left empty
- Fan of rugby player, one not dropping ball
- Support figure going over testament, as advocate
- In jug, wretchedly poor, new inside – advocate required
- Rotating proton pen champion
- Champion rugby player’s single set of books
- Advocate single bid by rugby player
- Support for such a bid comes from him
- Champion rugby player working at hospital department
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Fan" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case fan = proponent.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does PROPONENT mean?
PROPONENT noun- One who supports something; an advocate
- One who makes a proposal or proposition.
- One who propounds a will for probate.
- Making proposals; proposing.