Middlesbrough defender Roberth Huth is expected to be rushed back into the first team despite being out of action since September with an ankle in jury.
The injury to captain Emanuel Pogatetz has brought about the urgency of the Huth return that was not likely to happen for another couple of weeks.
"Robert was very close to being on the bench last week (against Newcastle)," said Boro first-team coach Colin Cooper.
"It was a blow for him to miss the chance of a run-out, but he's certain to be close to the bench this week.
"It's great to have him back because you need your experienced players, especially at this time."
Cooper went on to reveal how Pogatetz will struggle to get up for the trip to Hull this weekend.
"Manny has took a bang on his shoulder," he said.
"But he's a tough fella and he is quite positive about his chances.
"We have had it looked at and the great thing is there is no fracture.
"Manny is desperate to play and we are desperate for him to play because he makes a difference for us.
"You miss any player of his quality, so we will keep our fingers crossed. But it was a very nasty bang."