Sunderland 'Til I Die: An episode-by-episode breakdown of the fascinating Netflix series

Eight action-packed episodes follow Sunderland’s ill-fated 2017/18 season, which saw the club relegated to the third tier for the first time in three decades.

And as the likes of Martin Bain, Chris Coleman and Darron Gibson take centre stages, fans will be eagerly anticipating the chance to view a behind the scenes look at a disastrous campaign.

But what should supporters expect from each episode? Here’s our episode-by-episode look at the series:

Episode 1

The series kicks-off as pre-season comes to its conclusion, and focuses heavily on the early days of Simon Grayson’s reign.

From his pre-season pep talk to the squad to the humiliating defeat by Celtic, episode one showcases how the season started to unravel before it had even began.

Then there’s Gibson’s drunken outburst, and footage of the midfielder reacting to his claims that some of his teammates didn’t care about the club.

Supporters also receive an interesting insight into Martin Bain’s role - as he reveals how Sunderland players were telling him they weren’t happy to return to training.

Episode 2

Arguably one of the more insightful episodes of the series, the second installment puts the focus firmly on transfers.

Cameras head into the heart of a transfer meeting, chaired by Bain and with several of the club’s senior recruitment staff present.

There, Bain makes the startling revelation that staff weren’t made aware of the club’s budgetary constraints and were therefore identifying pointless targets - such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Then there’s the scouting trip undertaken by Glynn Snodin and Sandy Miller, where it’s heavily suggested that the fact a target was wearing gloves in the summer meant Sunderland weren’t interested.

Overall, the episode offers a fascinating insight into Sunderland’s hap-hazard recruitment - which will leave you intrigued and incensed in equal measure.

Episode 3

As Grayson is relieved of his duties, episode three focuses on the unravelling nature of Sunderland’s campaign.

From the late collapse at Brentford to the home draw with struggling Bolton, this installment focuses heavily on Bain as he deals with the inevitability that Grayson will have to go.

There’s a good insight into how a managerial sacking is communicated, while there’s also an interesting anecdote from Robbin Ruiter as he reveals he was told he was starting a game just five minutes before leaving.

Series regular Jason Steele - who comes out well throughout the documentary - also discusses being dropped in a conversation which is sure to interest Wearsiders.

Episode 4

With Grayson out, Coleman comes in and the episode takes an in-depth look at the hiring of the former Wales manager.

But that only comes after Bain reveals how several senior Sunderland players were far from happy with the club’s treatment of Grayson.

Once Coleman is appointed, the camera go behind the scenes on his first day and see his early discussions with staff and players - in what is an eye-opening look at the Welshman’s tenure.

Episode 5

Arguably one of the more explosive episodes of the series, episode five focuses on the January transfer window and Sunderland’s woeful recruitment drive.

There’s a fascinating look at the conversations held between a club and an agent - as Chris Martin’s representative puts the brakes on a move to Sunderland.

Then there’s Lewis Grabban revealing the true reasons he left the Stadium of Light, plus Jack Rodwell’s clear refusal to play for the club.

Certainly plenty to take in from a disastrous transfer window.

Episode 6

Focusing on one of the key characters of the series - Jonny Williams - the sixth installment of Sunderland ‘Til I Die is certainly one of the more fascinating.

From highlighting Williams’ return to action in the 3-3 draw with Middlesbrough to delving inside his consultation with a sports psychologist, there’s a rare insight to the life of a football.

You may well think differently about professional sports people and the pressure they face after watching this episode.

Episode 7

As the wheels start to come off and Sunderland stare relegation squarely in the face, the documentary peaks with perhaps its finest episode.

Tensions are beginning to rise and this is captured perfectly - with Chris Coleman’s foul-mouthed confrontation with a disgruntled supporter the most memorable moment.

There’s also an emotional look at how the city dealt with relegation, including a chilling rendition of ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’ performed in the Colliery Tavern.

There’s emotion aplenty in an episode which perfectly reflects the mood of the city and club as a whole.

Episode 8

A drastic change as the mood shifts to optimism, the final installment focuses on Stewart Donald and Charlie Methven’s takeover of the club.

From their first press conference to a behind the scenes look at the Academy of Light on their day, yet again supporters are offered privileged access to the hallowed halls of the club.

While there is little new to be learnt from this episode, it proves a fitting conclusion to an enjoyable documentary - and perfectly tees up a second series.