Dustin Fletcher will be part of Essendon’s Comeback Story in 2017.

The 400 game player is returning to the Club in an ambassadorial role that will see him split his time between membership, media, events and match-day roles.

He’ll appear regularly on BomberTV throughout the season where the two-time premiership player will provide insights into the team’s progress and reflect on some of the most significant and memorable moments in Essendon’s history.

“I’m really looking forward to being back at the Essendon Football Club,” Fletcher said.

“After all that’s happened to walk back into the footy club a couple of weeks ago and speak to the guys and meet John Worsfold and the coaching staff was fantastic.

“In a way it’s like you never left, it certainly was a good feeling.”

Fletcher kept a close eye on the Bombers progress throughout 2016 and was impressed by the way the young group came together.

“Their endeavour and enthusiasm was really good and obviously that’s going to hold them in good stead for this year and we’ve seen that already,” Fletcher said.

Fletcher is optimistic about the side’s prospects in 2017.

“I think they’re shaping up really well, obviously it’ll be good to see ‘Hooksy’ [Cale Hooker] back in that line-up, but to see the young guys coming through – they look like their endeavour and enthusiasm is really good,” Fletcher said.

“Also to see Jobe back and Heath hocking on the weekend … it’s good to see a bit of muscle back in the side.”

Fletcher was a member of the Essendon line-up for 23 straight seasons.

He said his first year out of the game had enabled him to spend more time with his family.

“You feel like you’re catching up with your kids again – just to be able to become a parent in a different way, I really enjoyed that,” he said.