Novak, who sustained the injury in last week's home defeat to Norwich, is one of three forwards missing for Lee Clark's side as Nathan Eccleston, on loan from Liverpool, sits out the second of a three-game ban, while Robbie Simpson is struggling with a thigh strain.
Theo Robinson, who last appeared in the starting line-up in October, is therefore expected to be given his chance alongside leading goalscorer Jordan Rhodes.
Clark could be tempted to make further changes after a run of three straight league defeats that has seen his side fall five points adrift of the play-offs, with Nathan Clarke, Robbie Williams, Tom Clarke, James Berrett and Antony Kay all pushing for first-team recalls.
Source: Team Talk
Source: Team Talk