Bates, 35, currently in retirement, seems the favourite to start against West Hartlepool on Sunday, against whom he played his last competitive match in 1997/8.

The Falcons have been forced into this position after Gary Armstrong was ruled out for up to six weeks with a broken thumb.

Gary Armstrong could be out till February

Possible replacement Allen Chilten has two broken fingers, while Hall Charlton, who has been capped by England Schools, has yet to play a Premiership match.

Bates' appearance is likely to evoke memories of a different age, as he is set to line up next to Rob Andrew, also 35, in the backs.

Meanwhile, Armstrong is left to reflect on the possibility of either being fit for the New Year, or not being available till late February.

"The surgeon said it could be anything from 10 days to four to six weeks, but that we would know more when the swelling goes down," said the Scotland scrum half.

"We'll check it in the morning and if the swelling and pain disappears I could be playing again pretty soon." he added.