Luke Donald has claimed that his battle with Rory McIlroy at the top of the world rankings will intensify in the coming months.

Donald relinquished his position as best in the world to McIlroy last weekend but expects there to be many battles between him and the Northern Irishman in the next few tournaments.

The Englishman said: "The last couple of months I think it probably has not been as exciting because Rory and I really haven't been playing in the same events.

"I think that will change a little bit and hopefully there will be some situations coming up in the next few months where we'll be playing in the same tournament and both having a chance to win. That's more exciting I think.

"I have no issues - I kind of enjoy the going back and forth."

Both players will compete in the Players Championship at Sawgrass starting on Thursday.