Scott McDonald could still play for Middlesbrough again this season despite injuring his hamstring on the weekend.
The Australian striker had to be replaced in the 67th minute of Saturday's 4-2 win over Hull City after scoring a hat-trick and was forced out of Monday's victory at home over Coventry City because of the problem.
But Middlesbrough boss Tony Mowbray was hopeful that the former Celtic star can still play a part in the Tessider's season run-in, which has two matches remaining.
"I'm not ruling him out, normally with a hamstring you rule a player out for a few weeks," Mowbray told BBC Tees.
"Scott's desperate to get back, we hope he can still have some involvement.
"If he isn't able to come back, it's not a bad way for him to end the season with his hat-trick."
