Referee Martin Atkinson to take charge of Liverpool’s FA Cup fourth round tie with Manchester United

Jan 24 2012 by Chris Wright, Liverpool Echo

MARTIN ATKINSON has been selected to referee Liverpool's FA Cup fourth round clash with Manchester United at Anfield on Saturday.

The Bradford official has sent off more players than any other top flight referee this season – showing six red cards in 17 Premier League games. He has also issued 65 bookings.

The three previous Liverpool matches he has officiated this term have all involved a red card.

Atkinson dismissed Arsenal's Emmanuel Frimpong in the Reds' win at the Emirates back in August.

He then controversially sent Everton's Jack Rodwell for an early bath in the derby at Goodison in October but that red card was subsequently rescinded.

Atkinson also took charge of Liverpool's home league game against Manchester City in November when he sent off City striker Mario Balotelli.

Saturday will be the first time this season the 40-year-old has taken charge of a game involving Manchester United.