Martin Atkinson has been appointed as the referee for Sunday's key Premier League clash between Liverpool and Manchester United.

The 43-year-old, who has officiated in the Premier League since 2005, faced widespread criticism for his performance in Chelsea's 1-1 draw against Burnley last month, where Ashley Barnes escaped punishment for a horror challenge on Nemanja Matic, who was sent off for his reaction.

Atkinson was rested for the next round of Premier League fixtures, but his standing as one of the top officials in England has seen him acquire one of the biggest games in the English calendar.

United currently sit fourth in the Premier League, five points ahead of Liverpool, who play their game in hand against Swansea City tonight.