Atkinson, 46, will be the lead official when United visit City at the Etihad Stadium, where the latter look to jump ahead of their city rivals in the Premier League standings with a win.

The West Yorkshire official has refereed three United fixtures this season -- the 4-0 defeat at Chelsea on Oct. 23 and the 3-1 home win over Sunderland on Dec. 26 in the Premier League, plus Feb. 19's FA Cup victory at Blackburn Rovers.

Atkinson has taken charge of two Manchester City games in the Premier League this term -- Dec. 18's 2-1 home win over Arsenal and the 2-0 victory at Sunderland on March 5.

He was the head official for Manchester United's derby victories in the 2009-10 season, both of which were won in stoppage time.

Atkinson also presided over United's 3-2 victory at the Etihad Stadium in 2012l.

Neil Swarbrick will be the game's fourth official.