The former Celtic target-man netted a 17th minute equaliser before succumbing to injury late in the second half and is now facing up to eight weeks on the sidelines.

“He’ll be out for six to eight weeks, four to six weeks, take your pick,” manager Tony Mowbray told BBC Tees.

“He’s desperately unhappy in there, and it’s another big loss for us.”

McDonald would have been hoping for a Socceroos recall ahead of Australia's World Cup Qualifier against Saudi Arabia in Melbourne on February 29.

McDonald has found the back of the net five times in his last eight games, taking his season tally to nine.