Crossword Genius

Random forename for a fictitious fellow (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

roderick

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

'random forename' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'fictitious fellow' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'fellow' could be 'eric' (I've seen this in other clues) and 'eric' is found in the answer.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'for a' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for roderick that I've seen before include "The Adventures of -- Random (Smollett)" , "Boy" , "Spode" , "Man" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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