Rory’s back to ‘old self’ says coach

RORY McILROY heads to the year’s final golf Major full of belief – despite sacking his long-time caddie.

McIlroy’s coach Michael Bannon insists the world No.4 rediscovered his “old self” at Birkdale, where he tied-fourth for The Open.

McIlroy (above) shocked golf on Monday by ending his nine-year partnership with JP Fitzgerald – and pal Harry Diamond will be on his bag for the next two tournaments.

But Bannon says the 28-year-old’s game is in good shape and Quail Hollow, venue for the US PGA, gives him a chance of ending his three-year Major drought.

“The Open has given him his confidence back,” said Bannon. “From the 8th onwards on the first day he was more like himself. He just fought on every shot.”

McIlroy said: “I’ve won the PGA twice, so I’ve got a lot of good memories to draw on when I get back there.”

But first comes the WGC Bridgestone Invitational in Akron tomorrow.