Winger Matty Sparrow (calf) and right-back Nathan Stanton (knee) are also doubts with knocks picked up in the game, while left-back Kevin Sharp is the latest squad member to be hit by a virus and is doubtful.
If Sharp has to sit out the game then the club will be left without a fit left-back as Lee Ridley is still recovering from a neck injury, this would see winger Lee Featherstone asked to fill in at the back.
The form table suggests a tough game for United, with Northampton winning four of their last six home matches.
They will be out to impress new manager Colin Calderwood, and will welcome back defender Paul Reid after a one match ban.
There will be one familiar face in the Cobblers squad - Scunthorpe-born Paul Harsley, who was part of the Iron squad which won promotion in 1999 is likely to be included in the starting lineup.
You can follow tonight's match live with Iron-Bru.net with our matchday program.
1 - We will have full lineups of both sides direct from the Sixfields Stadium shortly after the 7.45 kick-off.
2 - You can follow the latest score live with our Matchday Live service.
3 - Our match report with full stats and manager reaction will be online shortly after the final whistle.
And don't forget tomorrow's draw for the LDV Vans Trophy Second Round, we'll bring you the latest at noon.
1 - We will have full lineups of both sides direct from the Sixfields Stadium shortly after the 7.45 kick-off.
2 - You can follow the latest score live with our Matchday Live service.
3 - Our match report with full stats and manager reaction will be online shortly after the final whistle.
And don't forget tomorrow's draw for the LDV Vans Trophy Second Round, we'll bring you the latest at noon.
