The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word AVERRING
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
A
V
E
R
R
I
N
G
More clues leading to the result AVERRING
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Saying" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case saying = averring.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 AVERRING mean?
AVERRING verb- To assert the truth of, to affirm with confidence; to declare in a positive manner.
- To prove or justify a plea.
- To avouch, prove, or verify; to offer to verify.