Friday 9 October 2015 14:13, UK
Luke Donald said he was "surprised" by John McLaren's decision to end his position as caddie last month.
Donald and McLaren yielded £18m in prize money during their six-year partnership, and the 37-year-old became the highest-ranked player while working with his fellow Englishman.
The former world No 1, who won nine times around the world alongside McLaren, said: "I was a little surprised."
"We were starting to find some form, but John is a strong-willed guy. He has his own opinions and he felt like it was time for a change.
"I understand my game pretty well. I just want someone that's very supportive, encouraging and upbeat.
"I have not had a really good chance to win, but the consistency seems to be coming back and I am starting to show some evidence of good wedge play and putting. I am happy with the way it's trending."
Donald returned to form during the opening day of the British Masters at Woburn, where he is working alongside caddie Dean Elliot while he works out McLaren's full-time replacement, firing a first-round 67 to lie three shots off the overnight lead.
Despite the split, McLaren said he expects Donald to continue his improvement in form with Pat Goss, who returned as his coach last year.
"There were just a couple of things that I don't need to go into that made me feel it was time for a change," McLaren said.
"I wish Luke all the best. He's definitely on the way back. He's in a good place again with Pat [Goss] and I can see him going on a good run."
