Gardner and Thatcher are set to take their places in the side as they look to improve their match fitness after a couple of reserve team outings in recent weeks, and should they come through unscathed both could be in contention for Tuesday's Worthington Cup clash at Tranmere.
Matthew Etherington is set to make his return to the club for the first time since he joined Spurs 18 months ago but former Posh starlet Simon Davies will miss out as he is on international duty with Wales after a meteoric rise since arriving at White Hart Lane from London Road.
Gavin Kelly is likely to play in goal with both Neil Sullivan and Kasey Keller on international duty with Scotland and USA respectively, while Tim Sherwood should also get the chance to play and catch the eye of Hoddle after being dropped from the first-team squad.