It is thought that new signing Yakubu will partner Mark Viduka upfront, while Boro also include Gareth Southgate, Ugo Ehiogu, Franck Queudrue, Ray Parlour, George Boateng and Gaizka Mendieta in the squad, for the 18,000 sell-out at Tynecastle.
The squad to play Hartlepool has less first team experience but includes Szilard Nemeth, Doriva, Michael Reiziger and Colin Cooper.
Both games kick-off at 7.30pm.