The defender missed last weekend's surprise 3-1 home defeat by Exeter after coming off worse in a collision with a dug-out at Hartlepool.
Francis suffered a back injury and a fractured hand but is expected to be available on Friday night, leaving manager Chris Powell with a selection dilemma after youngster Carl Jenkinson impressed on his full debut at right-back.
Striker Paul Benson is still struggling with a back problem and left-back Federico Bessone remains sidelined with a hamstring injury.
But forward Joe Anyinsah is pushing for a start after he was an unused substitute against Exeter having recovered from a groin injury.
Source: PA
Source: PA