Eardley sustained a hamstring injury in Tuesday's 3-0 defeat at Sheffield United and is set for an extended period on the sidelines.
His place could go to Andy Butler, although centre-half Ian Evatt may come into contention as he continues his way back to full fitness.
Left-back Stephen Crainey played the full 90 minutes at Bramall Lane, just 10 days after suffering a knee problem that looked as if it may require surgery.
Algeria international Hameur Bouazza has been dogged by a groin problem since the African Nations Cup and is set to remain sidelined.
