I think the comparisons are apt, not so much as players but the circumstances. Both were saints stars, with huge clamour from saints fans for international honours, both played against poor opposition. One looked an international player the other didnt. Personally I never rated Beattie either, Strachan got the best out of him but like you say as a player he wasn't much at all. I remember being lamblasted on the old S4e site for daring to day Beattie wasn't international standard when they were indignant he was the best striker to ever play Soccerball.