Manager Steve Bruce is already without Muzzy Izzet, Kenny Cunningham and Matty Upson through injury for the game at The Riverside whilst Stephen Clemence serves a one game suspension.
Now Latka is doubtful for the game against Steve McLaren's side with the bruised shin he picked up in last weekend's win against Sunderland.
Striker Chris Sutton also faces a late fitness test on the hip injury which forced him to miss the second half of the Sunderland game last Saturday.
On a positive note, Damien Johnson's knee injury is not as bad as first thought and Stan Lazaridis, Olivier Tebily, David Dunn and Neil Kilkenny all came through the reserves game against Everton in midweek unscathed whilst Alex Bruce is available for selection again having now served his one game suspension for picking up five yellow cards this season.