Boro are already without captain Paul Ince (suspended), Benito Carbone (cup-tied) and Szilard Nemeth (ankle injury). The only hope is that Alen Boksic recovers in time from a groin injury, but he is also rated as doubtful.
Dean Windass is ready to answer tha call but he will have little recognised support. Windass has been withdrawn from the reserves team this week in preparation for Boro's big day.
Meanwhile, tickets are still on sale for Sundays cup-tie, although only tickets priced at £45 were left today. Tickets will remain on sale throughout the week, subject to availability, so if you haven't got yours yet get down to the ticket office today.