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While Redskins coach Mike Shanahan recently created some doubt about London Fletcher’s future with the team, Fletcher himself said he’s coming back next year.

The veteran linebacker told David Elfin of 106.7 The Fan that he was having ankle surgery this morning, in plans of returning to the field.

“Surgery is the first step towards prepping for next season,” Fletcher said.

Fletcher will also have surgery to clean up an elbow problem later this month, and the two procedures will be the first of his remarkable 15-year career.

That he’s been able to play that long is amazing in and of itself, but to do so without needing surgical assistance is remarkable.

And knowing that his intent is to play will be a significant bit of good news for the Redskins, who would have had a big hole to fill without the benefit of cap room or draft picks if he would have retired.