The Argentina international suffered a dead leg in Saturday's 2-2 draw at Middlesbrough but has a chance of playing.
Full-back Danny Simpson has recovered from the knock he picked up at the Riverside Stadium but central defender Mike Williamson will be out for up to a month after breaking a bone in his hand while exercising at home.
Alan Smith (ankle) will not be risked and could instead come into contention for Saturday's trip to Bristol City, while Steven Taylor (knee) and Shola Ameobi (hamstring) remain on the sidelines, although Ameobi is expected to return to training on Thursday.
Midfielder Joey Barton is due to continue his comeback after foot surgery with an appearance for the reserves at Hartlepool.