New Middlesbrough boss Tony Mowbray has already revealed his starting 11 to his new squad and it is likely to be missing two key players with Julio Arca and Gary O'Neil doubtful.
However, Kevin Thompson, who suffered damage to his already fractured fibula last weekend, and Justin Hoyte are available for selection.
Mowbray told the club's website: "I've already decided on the starting line-up and the players were told at the start of training on Friday."
Barry Robson returns from suspension in time for the clash and Mowbray is delighted to have him available, adding: "It's a big boost as I'm sure he's been missed over the last three games."
Bristol City have doubts over midfield duo Cole Skuse and Jamal Campbell-Ryce ahead of the game.
Skuse has missed the last two matches with a heel problem, while Campbell-Ryce failed a fitness test on a hamstring injury ahead of the home draw against QPR last Friday.
"We are letting them work with the medical team. We will see if they are available on Friday," City boss Keith Millen told the club's official website.
Defender Christian Ribeiro is a definite absentee with the groin/hip problem he suffered in training towards the end of last week.
