James Alabi is in line to make his Scunthorpe debut
The 18-year-old striker joined on a one-month loan deal from Stoke on Thursday to bolster Brian Laws' attacking options.
Defender Callum Kennedy will definitely miss out after suffering a hamstring injury during last weekend's 3-0 defeat at Yeovil.
Kennedy has been ruled out for at least six weeks with Eddie Nolan, who replaced him against the Glovers, expected to fill in at the back.
Striker Akpo Sodje is also doubtful after twisting an ankle in the same fixture. Mike Grella may get the nod in attack alongside Karl Hawley, while Andy Barcham is also pushing for a starting role.
The Iron have won their last three successive home matches and are three points clear of the relegation zone.
Hartlepool boss John Hughes has hinted that Luke James will again be among the substitutes.
The 18-year-old has suffered a torrid time with injuries in recent seasons and Hughes has vowed to protect him despite his last-gasp winner against Leyton Orient last weekend.
Pools fans have urged the former Livingston chief to reward the youngster with a starting place but he insists James is still short of full fitness.
"Luke is someone we have to look after," Hughes told the Hartlepool Mail. "I say to the supporters I know why he's a favourite, I can see that, he excites the fans and that's great.
"But we shouldn't put too much on him in terms of expectations. I've seen players like that who, before you know it, have burned out."
Hughes has no fresh injury or suspension worries and could name the same starting XI that edged past Orient. Winger Andy Monkhouse is pushing for inclusion while striker Steve Howard is also available following a hamstring problem.M
