Speaking to the Hartlepool Mail after the loss, Boro's boss did have some good news to report, revealing that key defender Dael Fry is close to making his return. Warnock claimed: "Dael isn't far away. He is quite confident he'll be back next week.
"I'm no expert but there's bits of blood around it (the calf injury) but nothing damaging in the actual muscle. So, he should have a good chance for next week, I hope."
Next up, Boro will look to claim their first win in four matches this weekend, when they take on Wayne Rooney's Derby County at Pride Park on Saturday afternoon.
Middlesbrough strode to a 3-0 win over the Rams when they last met, back in November, and Boro will be desperate to do the double of the relegation battling side as they look to bridge the five-point gap between them and the play-off places.
Here's our round-up of all the latest news and transfer talk, involving Middlesbrough and a number of their divisional rivals.
1. Fresh revelation over Davies' Preston exit
Liverpool are believed to have snatched Preston's Ben Davies from under the noses of Celtic by exploiting the Scottish side's own pre-contract clause, which required him to be "injury-free and fit to play" before a move to Glasgow could be finalised. (Mirror) Photo: PHIL NOBLE
2. Rangers new boy credits Gerrard for switch
Ex-Bournemouth starlet Nnamdi Ofoborh has revealed that playing under Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard was a key reason behind him choosing to join the Gers last month. Sheffield Wednesday and Watford were also thought to be keen. (Daily Record) Photo: NEIL HALL
3. Hornets boss on thin ice
Watford are believed to be considering manager Xisco Munoz's future at the club carefully, following their third match in a row without a win. A series of tactical changes are also thought to have led to unrest among the players. (The Athletic) Photo: Richard Heathcote
4. Swans icon comes out of retirement
Former Swansea City stalwart Leon Britton has come out of retirement at the age of 38, signing for Welsh side Ammanford AFC. He was a League Cup winner with the Swans back in 2013, and helped them secure promotion on three separate occasions. (Wales Online) Photo: Dan Mullan