George Friend, Marten de Roon and Victor Valdes have all been passed fit, but James Husband, Grant Leadbitter and Fabio da Silva remain out of contention.
Aitor Karanka is hopeful that Cristhian Stuani and Gaston Ramirez will be ready after returning late from international duty with Uruguay.
Crystal Palace loanee Loic Remy has returned to Chelsea after sustaining an injury in training which is expected to keep him out for a number of weeks.
Mathieu Flamini, signed on a free transfer on Thursday, is not believed to be in contention for a starting berth as he works towards full match fitness. Yohan Cabaye and James McArthur are doubtful.
Did you know?
This will be the first Premier League meeting between these sides since 2004/05, when Middlesbrough won 2-1 at home and 1-0 away.
Middlesbrough have lost only one of their last 10 home matches in the top flight, but seven of these have ended all square (W2 D7 L1).
The Eagles have never won in five league visits to the Riverside Stadium (D2 L3).
Christian Benteke has been flagged offside more than anyone else in the Premier League this season, despite playing once (5).
What the managers say
Aitor Karanka: "Crystal Palace are experienced and have a good manager. But we have to focus on ourselves and play in our style."
See: Karanka hails selection headache | Karanka provides injury update
Alan Pardew on Loic Remy: "It is obviously a blow for the player and for us as a squad. He was looking great in training."
See: Remy returns to Chelsea | Flamini excited by ambitous Palace
