Task switcher in lollipop topic

I suddenly feel like a total noob. I've just upgraded to stock lollipop.

I can't decide whether it is a bug after upgrade or whether I don't have a clue.

I cannot access recent apps. I've tried double tapping the home button, sliding up from the home button, (thought that was the Google Now shortcut) and neither seem to do anything. I really miss task switcher. Can someone tell me whether I'm doing anything wrong, or is there a bug in the stock rom?

Many thanks,

[Q] Anyway to remove Task Manager/Close all from Recents? topic

Every time I open my recent apps it becomes a game of Operation to try and not hit either the Task Manager or the Close All buttons while scrolling or reaching for the hardware buttons. It's infuriating to work on my phone and have to worry swiping those two. Anyway I can remove them?