Martin Atkinson to referee Merseyside derby

Martin Atkinson has been given the nod to take charge of next weekend's Premier League clash between Everton and Liverpool.

The West Yorkshire referee has not officiated a game at Goodison Park since infuriating Toffees fans by showing Jack Rodwell a straight red card for his challenge on Luis Suarez in 2011.

Atkinson has overlooked four Merseyside derby matches in the past, reaching into his back pocket on three separate occasions.

While his decision to dismiss Rodwell was the most controversial of the lot, the experienced whistler also upset some when giving Sotirios Kyrgiakos and Steven Pienaar their marching orders in the past.

Atkinson has shown more yellow cards this season than any other top-flight referee.