MIKE RILEY will now officiate Everton’s FA Cup semi-final against Manchester United on Sunday.

Steve Bennett was initially set to take charge of the Wembley showdown between the North West rivals until he was forced to withdraw through illness.

Now the Football Association have confirmed that Yorkshireman Riley will referee the tie. Riley has been his usual card-happy self this season, handing out 112 yellows and six reds in 29 games this season.

David Moyes has rarely seen eye-to-eye with the official, who upset the Goodison manager way back in 2003 when he awarded a controversial penalty to United in the final game of the season that cost Everton a place in the UEFA Cup.

Riley sent off Tim Cahill in the 2-0 derby defeat to Liverpool in September, with his most recent game officiating Everton the win at Middlesbrough on Boxing Day.

Meanwhile, Jo admits he is still in the dark as to where he will be playing next season.

The Brazilian has netted five goals in eight games since arriving at Goodison on loan from Manchester City in January.

Jo struggled to make an impression at Eastlands following a summer £18million move from CSKA Moscow, but believes he has been given the opportunity to prosper at Everton.

However, with the club yet to formalise their summer spending plans, the striker accepts his future remains in limbo.

“I felt like I was entering into my own home,” Jo said of his move to Everton.

“All the players and coaches were really friendly and that made me feel really appreciated.

“At Manchester City I was

disappointed as I was training well there. There is no player who likes to be on the bench but there can only be 11 on the pitch. I’m now much happier playing at Everton.

“It is my style of play not to have a fixed position. In Manchester City I did. At Everton, I can run free and that is the reason I am scoring goals and why I have improved.

“The future only God knows. In my opinion, I am intending to finish the season here. At the end of it, we will sit down and discuss whether I am staying or going. I know I have a lot to give in England.”