McDonald missed Boro's 2-1 win over Coventry on Monday after limping off in the second-half of Saturday's 4-2 victory over Hull where he had earlier scored a hat-trick.

The injury was a blow for the Australian who had found form after five goals in four matches.

But Mowbray is hopeful McDonald will return before the end of the season, meaning he should be available for selection for the Socceroos' June friendlies.

"I'm not ruling him out, normally with a hamstring you rule a player out for a few weeks," Mowbray told BBC Tees.

"Scott's desperate to get back, we hope he can still have some involvement."

Mowbray added: "If he isn't able to come back, it's not a bad way for him to end the season with his hat-trick."

Former Celtic striker McDonald has scored 14 goals in all competitions for Boro this term.