After Howard the Duck's surprise cameo in 2014's Guardians of the Galaxy, fans were eager to know whether the cult-favorite character had a future in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Unfortunately, there don't appear to be any concrete plans for Howard, but that didn't stop writer/director James Gunn from including him in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2.

Fans will note that everyone's favorite duck made a quick appearance in the scene in which the Ravagers visit what can only be described as a brothel on a planet named Contraxia. Howard the Duck is shown sitting down with a drink while speaking with a woman. It's a rather brief sequence, but nevertheless a fun way to bring back the character.

However, new concept art for the film reveals a rather different take on the character's design -- one that aligns more closely with the his current appearance in the comics. Concept artist Ryan Lang recently revealed the artwork on his Art Station page.

While it's too early to know what Gunn has in store for the third installment of Guardians of the Galaxy, it's safe to presume Howard the Duck will return for the trilogy closer, as the filmmaker has often cited his love of the character. Of course, it's entirely possible we could see him long before then, as Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige has teased that Howard is capable of showing up when least expected.

Now in theaters, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 stars Chris Pratt as Star-Lord, Zoe Saldana as Gamora, Dave Bautista as Drax the Destroyer, Vin Diesel as Baby Groot, Bradley Cooper as Rocket Raccoon, Michael Rooker as Yondu Udonta, Karen Gillan as Nebula, Pom Klementieff as Mantis, Elizabeth Debicki as Ayesha, Chris Sullivan as Taserface, Sean Gunn as Kraglin, Glenn Close as Irani Rael and Kurt Russell as Ego.

(via Art Station)