The Frenchman missed the victories over Swansea and Scunthorpe with a hamstring injury but was due to return to training on Friday.
There is otherwise little good news for Southgate, who is still missing Brad Jones, Chris Riggott (both ankle) and Didier Digard (groin).
Striker Afonso Alves, who continues to be linked with a move away from the Riverside Stadium, remains on the sidelines with toe and Achilles problems.
Skipper Emanuel Pogatetz is closing in on a return from knee surgery but Matthew Bates (cruciate ligament) could miss the entire season.
